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C.„f<,tU V J'^n A.IUItr 167S. rftunttit.MijhStk=i!.lSt2- 

This Chart was composed and designed by John A. Heller in 1866, 
when studying Geometry. It represents ail the principal lines of Geometry 
in one compact group. These lines and signs compose the Harmony and 
Beauty of Geometry, — similar to the notes and signs in Music are to the 
Harmony and Beauty of Acoustics 




- - bg - - 
John A. Heller 

( Gem City Bard) 



BASED ON HIS 

EXPERIENCES OF 75 YEARS 
OF LIFE 



The Author donates these books free of all cost; for the benefit of 
Blessing Hospital, as a donation to the Building Fund for the 
new addition to the Hospital. 



PREFACE r g^Sl5^,^ 

Almost any person can learn to do anything possible, if they are willing 
to devote their minds and best efforts of their faculties, with earnest/resolution, 
and consciousness of their ability to do it. If a person intends definitely to 
accomplish an act and ceases to take a negative view, his thoughts center upon 
positive effort necessary to carry out the act, this attitude awakens the realiza- 
tion of a desire to learn how to do it. 

The secret of success in your work should not be just for money reward, 
but for the hope of skill to succeed in the accomplishment of your undertaking. 
The person who has no appreciation of his own ability is most likely to have 
no regard for the results of his effort. Success does not always follow imme- 
diately, but if you are willing to repeat the effort, success will naturally follow, 
if you find the right lead. 

There is that disposition about my character that is misunderstood by 
most everybody who is not intimately acquainted with my disposition. I am 
always systematic and retiring. I never was much of a talker, but always a 
good listener, and an appreciative absorber of other's ideas. I never wish to 
start an animated discussion unless the hearers are willing to listen to me at- 
tentively, affording me opportunity to give explanation to my views, so that 
the reason and logic will be comprehensive. 1 was always eager to watch and 
learn the pageantry of human life and actions, and earnest in the pursuit of 
Nature and its phenomenons, although I never had an opportunity to go to 
school. 

In the composition of these poems I have endeavored to show the in- 
tellectual, cheerful and moral precepts, and their persual will stimulate the 
natural and higher elements of human existence. All good poems do that to 
an eminent degree; but the great majority of the American people are more 
interested in frivolities than in good inspiring Poetry. Poetry is crystalized 
music, — Music is etherized poetry. As the proof that poetry is stimulating to 
the human mind, observe the immense enthusiasm aroused by the singing, or 
music, of The Star Spangled Banner, or The Marseillaise, or some of the in- 
spiring religious hymns. 

So, when feeling blue or lonesome, pick up this book and read the poems 
your fancy likes best; it will stimulate the circulation of your blood, and the 
dose will make you feel better. 

When you take a seat in a shady nook. 

And peruse the poems in this book: 

You'll meet with mopalg and with cheer; 

Which this book to. ail ■ makes clear. 

For there's not in it a single dismal page, 

But lots of Nature's laws, of every age. 

Most all of the thoughts are vital themes 

Of common sense — not ranting dreams. 

There's many a message that's sublime. 

And their perusal is well worth the time. 

So I will not attempt in a longer verse 

The preface of this book to rehearse 

Not let stubborn pride make it long; 

And be entirely negligent of any fame. 

With a graceful muse as if in song: 

And announce my choice — Poet-name 

as the 

Gem City Bard. 
By Transfer ^ ,,, ,Q,r, 

Quini V. 111., I^lo. 

I AM Q IQOn 



A POETICAL EVOLUTION OF THE ARYAN RACE 

Progenitors and sires of our ancestral sources. 

We hail you as the fathers of our primeval forces, 

You fought with beasts for bones of juicy marrow. 

Long ages before the invention of spear or arrow. 

And no doubt you were all indifferently moral. 

Clubbing of heads was your idea of a quarrel. 

You had not yet learned ways of crafty war slaying. 

But had great skill of strife and mutual preying. 

But today we civilized men have modern inventions — 

Bombs, shells, and a great many devilish dimensions. 

All the creatures of so-called Christian humanitarians. 

All descendants of the much vaulted race of Aryans. 

History shows what always preceded persecution 

Was military preparations and religious institutions. 

In ancient days most men were serfs to cunning art. 

And the ignorant hordes labored with willing hearts. 

But that day is past; now intelligence sets on the brow. 

So each can pursue a course and be his own master now. 

And if you win success, and win it on the square. 

And climb the heights without getting dizzy there; 

And if you can stand and meet with every adverse tide 

And stand the winning game without a swelled-up pride. 

And never look upon others with a feeling of disdain. 

Then you're a man with good rich blood in every vein. 

Have views that are your own, nor give them up for any. 

It's better to be right all alone than in the wrong with many, 

Study such things only, that when they're understood 

Will help to create in your own neighborhood 

Only such ideas and actions that are superfined 

So as to create in each moral traits of the mind. 

Into a class of honorable members that are good, 

Who are willing to join in as one brotherhood. 

Remember that such maxims as these 

Will undoubtedly tend to set the mind at ease. 

As man is his own star; and the soul that can 

Render an honest, upright and perfect man. 

Commands all light, all influence, and all fate, 

As nothing to him falls too early or too late. 

And as our acts our angels are whether good or ill, 

They are our fatal shadows that walk by us still. 

Thus Evolution, with the steady step of time. 

Will lead from the wrong to the right, sublime. 

And when the time comes when we have to go 

From all of our dear friends we loved so, 

And nature will our earthly ties sever. 

We will have to say to all good-bye forever. 

When life is over and our sorrows are done 

It'll leave memories of a lasting victory won. 



ALL CREATION 

A man's ingress into this world is naked and bare, 

His progress through the world is trouble and care: 

And his egress out of the world is, nobody knows where. 

But if you do what's right while here, you need not care. 

And the wheels of Time revolving bring to view 

Life's gladness and, alas! it brings sadness too. 

For both are hidden just behind all review. 

And the golden promises give no certainty to you. 

In the beginning they say there was nothing but void. 

In order to change the everlasting lonesomeness to avoid. 

Force first made a conquest, the conquest made law. 

Then tyrants taught superstition, the masses to awe. 

The conquerors then made God, and the masses slaves. 

To remain so till they died and went to their graves. 

The tyrants they called God down from the skies, 

The devils, from caverns below, they got him to arise, 

The God took the devil and, we're told, had him chained. 

And for thousands of years thus he. remained. 

And they tell us that he never complained or moaned, 

But at last he determined to start hell as his own. 

Then God made a flood, the wicked to drown. 

But he saved Noah's family, and among them was found 

The devil — and why the Lord saved him 1 ask. 

We should expect God to make a better task. 

Then the fear of the devil controlled the masses, 

The bosses promised salvation, and ruled the asses. 

But those halcyon days of bosses are about over. 

Before long the asses will feed upon clover. 

But it seems that God is discontented quite. 

Because the things in this world are not right. 

Now the bosses wave the olive branch aloft. 

And pray for all god-images to answer soft. 

Oh, God of every living thing, if Thou art a part. 

If You really dwell in each throbbing human heart. 

Why crucify Thine own images on fields of war 

If in thy own image Thou hast created him so far. 

Stay the slaughter and ruin, if You really can 

And save the remnants of Thine image — Man. 

What a "God" to create, then weigh down mankind 

With such chains of passions, strong and blind. 

Curse them at birth, in life and death as well, 

Then send the most to an everlasting hell. 

Almighty God, whereabouts are you> 

What are You doing. Your answers so few^ 

If Thou art so all-wise as they do pretend. 

Now is the time to show you're a friend. 

To your images prove your gratitude .so well, 

That your Christians will end war's hell. 

If it's true that you lack this all-wise power, 



Then acknov/Iedge it and abdicate this hour. 

So that all can learn — so it'll be understood 

That we're all of one identical brotherhood. 

That each man is his own guide, and he can. 

If he wills, render himself an upright, perfect man. 

That thus he can command all light, justice and fate. 

By such a life, to him nothing falls too early or too late 

As our conscious acts are our own for good or ill. 

They are and will be the shadows that follow us still. 

A MIDNIGHT POEM 

As I tossed at midnight upon a dreamless bed, 

And thoughts of different kinds passed through my head 

At last I thought if wakefully in bed I must recline, 

I'll arise, use the opportunity some verses to intertwine. 

As I thought the pastime will at least be something new. 

By thus agreeing to grant the midnight an interview. 

And endeavor not to get an airy flirting of the quill. 

For of them there's enough to make most people ill. 

I've never tried to write such a one hitherto. 

But I feel just now that it's something I can do. 

Some authors are inclined to try, then fret, and fall 

Because, perhaps, they haven't t,ot enough gall 

To keep their thinker a going, so as to combine 

In prose, something that is good and superfine. 

Because their thoughts float through a mazy spread, 

Until their wit is completely fagged and nearly dead. 

In trying to weave light phrases into a deft design 

That would reflect bright thoughts that would shine. 

From the age of ten 1 always thought this world was bright. 

And wished to work at something, for it gave me delight. 

And caused me to sing and whistle to make glad at heart. 

Was up at daylight so as to be sure to get an early start. 

Wishing to work at something, so as to live the longer. 

Because I knew that exercise mads me be stronger. 

Was always cheerful from boyhood, and had a most inquiring turn. 

Wanted to see everything of which there was something to learn. 

I began to earn a salary at the age of ten, under a circums':ance. 

Always paid strict attention to my duty, so as to receive an advance. 

And as I advanced in life and position, with mind at ease. 

Always contented with simple pleasures that would please. 

And if you want to live and learn from the great and good of yore, 

You must learn to strive for knowledge you had not before. 

Must remember this world is not all made up of pleasures. 

And tliat to succeed you must dive deep for unseen treasures. 

Also that an upright mind and morals are always nature's plan 

That're good to be followed, to fill the test of a gentleman. 

No matter what's your occupation, if you swing a blacksmith s sledge. 

Always remember and hold up your head with those that wedge 

Themselves through right or wrong, upon the highest benches. 



If you're an honest, upright man, even if you dig in the trenches, 
And learn to always be deep rooted in every honorable thought; 
Learn also to shun all dishonest things that are sold or bought. 
As you pass through life see that your every deed and act 
Will be sure to leave a sunbeam that is a radiant fact. 

MULTUM IN PARVO 

Ever since the creation of this world began. 

Nature has been perfecting the human man. 

First by the creation of material to form a crust, 

By heat and chemical change of cosmic dust; 

Then the creation of a carbonic atmosphere. 

Which changed some matter to moisture in the air. 

Which, as the crust cooled, it would form the sea. 

Which contained the elements to form the "algae." 

As ages passed and land began to be formed 

Vegetation began to develop; also it stormed. 

Thus breaking down gigantic plants, that formed mold 

From which various other plants were extolled. 

At last there appeared into the shallow sea dish 

The first animal life, as the protoplasmic jelly-fish. 

From which, in time, developed life of mollusk age. 

When nature prepared to turn over a new page. 

And now began to make many changes of animal life. 

And many fish were multiplied in the sea's strife. 

Then after years came the carboniferous age. 

In which giant growth of vegetation was the rage. 

From which the earth slid into the reptilian time. 

Wherein there were giant animals that were sublime. 

After millions of ages came the warm blooded mammals 

Of various kinds of young-bearing, milk-sucking annals. 

And as the earth was seemingly well prepared. 

The wild, uncouth human-shaped man dared 

To occupy the woods with other wild beasts. 

They ate the roots, fruits, and seeds as their feast. 

Mingled in pairs, as all wild animals naturally do; 

Had no speech except squeals, grunts and shoo. 

Thus they lived by animal instincts from age to age. 

Increasing slowly, improving but little from stage to stage. 

Finally congregating in groups for self-protection. 

From other fiercer brutes, by closer inspection 

Living in stormy weather and at night in caves, 

Propped their dead in trees, they knew no graves. 

The primeval epicures would chew with pleasure 

Life's sustaining substances of flesh in a measure. 

Sitting on a bed of moss in a shady fern-glade 

He'd scrape from the bones with a flint blade. 

In the course of time, one brighter than the rest 

Would appear, and he would lead them best 

He could; and when danger drew nigh at times 

He would repeat a certain cry in chimes. 



And thus was started the first human speech 
As these cries the leader to others would teach. 
And in time other cries, for use, would be brought out. 
So that in ages would be learned by all of those about. 
And as they multiplied, some would leave the place 
And would start a group, which started another race. 
Centuries passed, they increased, and food got scarce. 
The strongest would chase away those they dar'st 
To distant lands which were not yet occupied; 
Thus the groups of barbarians were multiplied. 
Finally they learned to skin and save 
The hides of beasts; which, as coverings, they gave 
Them tents, and also to use some as clothes; 
And they learned in time to eat the flesh they chose. 
Time came when some of each group would 
Develop brighter brains than others could. 
And they would be chosen as their chief. 
He would guide them, and give distress relief. 
When the chief would die the rest would cry 
And the whole group would groan and sigh 
Until the next brightest would take his place 
And constitute himself as chief of the race. 
As time passed some chief thought that the sun 
Was a God, and it was worshipped by everyone. 
One chief claimed that he was the son of the sun. 
And by him the first government begun. 
When he died they buried him in a grave. 
And over it a "Totem-Pole" they gave. 
Through experience of trances and dreams 
They supposed that there were deaths, it seems. 
And that when they died and did not survive, 
Some spirit had left and flew off into the sky. 
They worshipped Fire, as an emblem of the sun, 
Seeing that smoke arose from fire, the conclusion 
Was that it returned as a "spirit" to its home. 
They supposed that the- spirit of the chief did roam. 
They soon became tyrannical in the rule of the masses. 
In the Feudal ages, made them serfs, the equal of ox and asses. 
Not only for labor, but also as fighters in war; 
Then Chiefs warred with Chiefs, near and far. 
Thus, down through the path of ages has come 
The clash of spear, arrow, sword and gun. 
All on account of human strife and hate; 
Until today slaughter and ruin seems the fate. 
There's Our Civilization, with man as the game. 
And millions of fools are scorched in the flame. 
The poor innocent Plebeians are sure to be drubbed. 
And the instigators are safe from being clubbed. 
T^hey claim God-given charm keeps them from harm. 
Because it's by his command, strife is the balm. 
They sneer at nature, say "its not of consideration: 



God is commander of all Universal creation". 
It's by his rule, that man is a fool, and he must obey. 
By him we're appointed, and annointed^ — they say. 
This eternal error seems to be their delight. 
Because the Chiefs claimed it in ancient days, to fight 
As barbarians, when their homes were in caves. 
And long ages before they learned to have graves. 
The lunatic, lover, and poet will be apt to see 
All kinds of cloudy unnatural imagery. 
From the earth up to the heaven fairy shapes. 
' And out of them creative airy angels he makes. 
Thus from the frenzied poets glibbish tongue 
Is transmitted his lovely fairies to the young. 
Who, not having much self experience. 
Absorb the yarns as true, without any clearance. 
Whose fairy tales to them appear immaculate 
Are implicitly accepted without any hestitate. 
These lessons appear to them the truth to wield. 
Which in older days are found to be but a shield. 
My advice: — after you learn to read and write. 
Study the laws of Nature, with all your might. 
Learn Evolution; fear not about your little soul. 
And if you live right, nature will all control 
And guide everything on a natural plan 
So as to all who will, as a perfect man: 
Experience will teach you to study and think 
How to control what to eat and to drink. 
So that you can conserve your health. 
Which is the very essence of nature's wealth. 
See the beautiful temples that wealth has made. 
And the haunts where the humble fervently prayed. 
Hear the praise to God that have been offered so long, 
Then see the poverty homes the multitude throng. 
And see Pharisees laden with gold, costly and rare: 
See the penitent who crouched by others are 
Yearning to hear the bid of good cheer, "Come in" 
From the proud exalted, that are steeped in sin. 
And over the gambling tables the nobility scrowled. 
As in the cave or hut the fierce humanity howled. 
And drank deep from the fiery fountain of Hell, 
Whilst vicious nobles countenance fell. 
We reap what we sow in the soil of our own. 
Care not a fig for the one on a fairy throne. 
If contentment and peace are with your labor. 
Do all you can for a good friend or neighbor. 
Happiness and contentment you will find. 
If you impart justice and right to mankind. 
I hope those halcyon days are about over. 
And before long the masses will feed on clover, — 
When rulers learn to sacrifice personal ambition 
For the lives and happiness of subject's condition, — 



When Patriotism inspires to help elevate the weaJt, — 

When History is impartial, the truth only will speak, — 

When we live up to "Do unto all others as you 

Would want all others to do unto you", — 

Then will War, Hate and Strife, 

Be banished from Human Life. 

When National Jealousy and Quarrels cease. 

And International League-to-Enforce Peace 

Are accepted and enforced near and far; 

Then will this world abolish War. 

Then will the Banner of Humanity be unfurl'd, 

Unto all the Civilized Nations of the World. 

CONVERGENCE OF NATURE 

As time passed by; time came and he died. 

Friends dug a grave in which his body to hide. 

Roots, searching for food in the ground, from a tree. 

Reached the grave and absorbed nourishment, you see, 

To develop its growth, through sunlight and air, 

Making a magnificient grov/th of leaves that are fair; 

Autumn arrives, the leaves fall on soil that is cold; 

The leaves then decay and form good rich mold 

In wh ch, in spring and summer grows luxuriant grass 

Which is used to feed sheep which come and go past. 

The butcher buys and slaughters the sheep for food: 

Other people are developing and find the meat good. 

And thus wfe see convergence, natural law does unfold. 

And chemical change of substance of untold to told. 

Evolution of Nature from one substance to another. 

Thus making the dead, and the growing man a brother. 

In this respect there is Immortality in the human race. 

But for Celestial or Spiritual, Nature has no place. 

The time will come, when you and I shall be 

Part of so-called nothingness — but a part of eternity. 

True teachings of Natures Evolution of today 

Aver that we are born, live a while, and then decay. 

Thus Evolution with the steady steps of time 

Has brought the wrong, to the right thoughts sublime. 

As the noblest work to man, beneath the sun: 

So let the truth o Nature shine forth to everyone. 

Although we know not from whence we came. 

And the Truth is whither we'll go is just the same. 

But the facts are, we do know that we're here. 

But why we are, we have no proof, that's clear. 

We are certain that life's time here is brief; 

That nothing can change Nature, that's my belief. 

Therefore it's our duty to make this life more bright 

By helping humanity to learn the Truth and Right. 

I might howl so as to raise the dead. 

And give all the tears that I could shed. 



And continue to weep until the world is wetter, 
I don't believe it would make things any better. 
We reap what we sow in the soil of our own. 
Care not a fig for the laws of nature, if shown. 

EVOLUTION 

It is apparently true, that Evolution, I hold. 

Is the power supreme in Nature — as manifold 

As its mighty steadfast arms it outspreads. 

And with its universal blessings as it sheds 

All over Nature, from the blossom and the leaves 

As well as lichens on stones and moss on eaves. 

Grasses and grains in ranks and in sheaves, 

Each dial-marked leaf, and in each flower-bell; 

Wherewith which is in 'most every lonesome dell. 

Yea, in all fair forms, and all sounds and lights. 

As well as warmths, mysteries and mights 

Of Nature's greatest depths as well as heights. 

Out of the old Moons there come new ones bright: 

Thus Nature's graces increase its own light. 

Thus Evolution, with the steady steps of time. 

Has brought the thoughts of intellect of man 

From the wrong, to the right, of sublime 

Views of Nature's own just and true plan. 

And now that the heights are won. 

Let it with all its splendor shine forth 

As the noblest work beneath the Sun, 

To all the inhabitants of this Earth 

And as we do not know from whence we came. 

So where we will go when we die, is the same. 

TIME WAS AND IS 

When your hair starts to show the grey 
You realize that your time is passing away 
From your boyhood, to return never more 
To repeat the pleasant days of yore: 
When you wander down the lane of memory 
You forget the present, for the time of use-to-be. 
You may have worn tattered garments when young. 
And forgotten the successes you have swung; 
But there's no doubt but that you'd give all to be 
Again a sturdy boy, back again, so as to see 
Once more the splendors of childhood that have fled. 
For all the achievements of gain about you spread. 
You'd give all, if the experience you could retain 
But put your youth fifty years back again: 
For in youth we do not pay much attention 
To things we've learned, too many to mention. 
As Nature's laws, and most all useful things. 
They pass by youth's free and careless wings. 
There are crosses that are heavy for us to bear, 

* 10 



And joys and woes that each must share. 

But if we could only forsee their trend 

In our youthful days, so that we could mend 

Them before we journey clear through life, 

We could then avoid all evil and all strife. 

In Age it's too late — time's mill will never grind 

With the water that is past, you will find. 

MAKING LIFE CHEERFUL 

What in the world are you fretting about? 

You've not got measles, small pox, or gout; 

You have not got a single care or pain: 

Yet you complain day in and day out. 

Just like a chicken left out in the rain. 

Why not take life easy, just once in a while 

And face the human race with a happy smile; 

Get rid of your growl and your old grouch; 

Greet friends and family in a pleasant style. 

And don't be an ugly ill-tempered slouch. 

You're living but once, and the time is short. 

So can your blues and become a good sort. 

Don't spoil you cheerfulness with a frown; 

Don't borrow trouble, push if off with a snort. 

Keep up the bright, and the dark side down. 

There are things we really ought to know. 

That we ought to have learned long ago; 

When we saw them in ways that mislead, 

Instead of things that all could have read. 

We used to like them, until they are gone. 

Then we were aim'essly wandering on 

Through the mist, to this and to that. 

Only finding muddles to wonder at; 

Instead of learning the lore of man 

We followed the teachings of ancient clan. 

We thought that way for many years. 

And shed great sobs of briney tears. 

If contentment we could realize. 

When such as is, was otherwise. 

So as life speeds onward, try and find 

Many cheerful words and actions kind. 

We all have our troubles to fight 

So learn to have courage to do what's right. 

And face it calmly and with a smile. 

Brighter times will come after while. 

We know we are born, and have to go. 

But where, after death, we do not know. 

We look around on this world so gay, 

And there may be nothing bad in today 

Or any promise of any better tomorrow. 

But what's the use to sigh with sorrow. 

II 



SECRET OF SUCCESS 

Some say hard work is the secret of success; 
But I think there's to be quite another guess; 
For hard work may possibly be carried to excess. 
So therefore I would venture to intrude this surgess. 
When you are studying, just keep from any skurry, 
And then try to see that you don't worry; 
Just stick to what you're at without any flurry: 
You wi'l then soon learn, without useless hurry . 
As you reach the main points, keep a reflection, 
For if you don't, you'll find a lost recollection: 
And the mind will not be able to make selection 
Of the- points of your goal, without correction 
So here's to the world, with all that's in her. 
All the toil, and to the valiant one to win her. 
To the hopes and the hazards of her surprises. 
And to the grace of all of her great prizes. 
As well as to all of her innumerable chances. 
And all of her arts, frowns and glances. 
To her familiar ways to us, from the starting; 
And a Good Bye to her at the hour of parting 

X-MAS EVE AT R. R. DEPOT 

As the wind was blowing down the street. 

And everybody was slipping on the sleet. 

And many were rushing out of the station. 

Eagerly pushing to meet some relation. 

With the engine noise, blowing off steam, 

Everything in a hurly-burly, so it did seem 

And many passing with bundles so high 

That seemed to reach almost to the sky. 

But every bundle seemed to be securely tied. 

Strong enough to keep their joys inside. 

Many of them rushing so as to arrive 

In time to catch Street Car Number Five. 

While some would hesitate, others shout 

"What car must I take for my route." 

With so may getting off the train 

You surely will meet som-; who complain. 

The right attention they did not receive. 

So many were excited, you'll "iiardly believe. 

One old man, he looked so forlorn 

As if he wished that he never was born. 

An old lady came, her brother to meet. 

But slie had forgotten the name of the street. 

Another had brought some fresh eggs to sell 

But to what market, she could'nt tell. 

Another old fellow slipped and stumbled. 

Finally fell and smashed his bundle. 

But it is a fact, and I surely ought to know, 

And if j'ou weie there you would think its so, 

12 



"That Christmas Eve is all in a whirl". 
Some young fellow's there to meet his girl, 
Some lasses to meet their beau. 
Frequently Dad, to meet Ma, you know. 
And some questions asked, I know well 
Sometimes are too foolish for to tell. 
Some want to go close by, others go far, 
And all anxious to get to the right car. 
With the sleet splashing and coming down. 
And everyone striving to get up-town. 
And the most of the time you could not tell 
Who it was had the loudest yell. 
Some will get so terribly excited. 
And it takes some time to get them righted. 
But after a time 1 get them all off. 
Giving me time to sneeze and cough. 
And when I get a breathing spell, 
1 think Christmas Eve is like a hell. 

DON'T BE A FLOAT -A-LONG 

If you're to get above the throng 
See that you don't just drift alone. 
But don't be too fast, nor too slow. 
The middle speed, let her go. 
Wherever you wish to tread. 
Be sure to keep going ahead. 
Look and listen, so as to learn 
All things that will you concern. 
It's not enough to want to do, 
But push around all that stalls you. 
And if you're made of the proper stuff 
You'll gain strength sure enough. 
Even if at first you should fail. 
Some day you will hit the nail. 
But just keep on, don't you pause. 
For when you win you'll get applause. 
Success is good, even in any strife. 
So to win, must be your aim in life. 
Yes. Leadership goes only to a few, 
But by going straight, it may be you. 
Enthrone your intelligence, and 
Put the scepter of will in its hand. 
Skirk all extragavant cravings. 
And drill yourself to foster savings. 
As discipline is the price of success, 
With diligence it's sure to progress. 
Try your best to lead the throng. 
That you wont be "just a float-along '. 
But if you sit on a cushion without a s-ram. 
Eating strawberries, sugar and cream. 
You're not apt to travel very far, 

13 



Unless you've lots of money in your car. 
And some day you may get a bitter taste, 
If you just float-along with the waste. 

LET'S REMEMBER 

Always remember that our place 
Is within the civil human race. 
No matter whatever is your name 
The laws of Nature are the same, 
Toward you, as they are to me. 
No matter wherever we may be. 
Therefore let us try and enjoy 
Life, the same as a good boy. 
The time is coming when we will 
Each one be planted under a hill. 
So let's enjoy life while yet we may, 
And use the sunshine to make hay. 
So let's discard all grouch and frown 
And be friendly will all in town: 
Always boost the joys of this life. 
Forget all about quarrels or strife 
And accept all the pleasant things 
That a happy temper always brings. 
Let all disagreeables go or fall 
So as to get rid of them one and all, 
Always carry out the golden rule 
That we read when in our school. 
Enjoy our life whilst still we live 
With comfort, and cheer to give: 
For if we pass our time in vain. 
We may wish to better it again. 
And have more courage and cheer 
To share with those that are near. 
So let's do our best while we may. 
For soon all will have to pass away. 

LUCKY IS HE 

Lucky is he who has some one on whom to depend; 
That will always be faithful and true as a friend; 
To whom he can go for guidance and advice. 
Who will be true to him beyond all price: 
So that there'l be no doubt in him to confide 
Any of his troubles, doubts, or selfish pride; 
When he is in doubt of some grief or distress. 
To advise him how to deport, or to digress 
Himself, so that he can ward off any blows. 
Of mistakes might come, that he not knows. 
Thus to cause some wrong move to be made 
That would be apt to put him in the shade. 
If then you can stand and meet all fate. 
And fight through all without any hate: 

14 



By facing what troubles come your way. 

You will be very apt to carrj' the day 

And meet disappointments with a smile. 

By winning triumphs that are worth while. 

Then will you win success in this life. 

And stand the winning side without much strife. 

There is this that should be told. 

That my maxims may be old. 

But if you follow them as being wise 

They will not harras you in any guise. 

For surely honor awaits the man 

Who conscientiously follows the plan. 

THE LUST OF MONEY 

In thinking of certain things, I have found 
That many of our plans are not quite sound; 
And that the lust for money, for its own sake. 
Is a great social fault and a mistake: 
In which many rush into a quicksand. 
Where they are swamped and damned. 
Seeing how absurd antics are a mistake. 
Often leading to a financial earthquake. 
And when all this turmoil is over. 
The most of them must go under cover. 
Because others tried themselves to avail; 
But by their mistakes, did not prevail. 
When they thought they had chosen it. 
And when too late, found they had closen it. 
When the conquest caused him to tell 
How it happened, and why it fell. 
And when all was said, why it went. 
Because there was an item absent. 
So onward in this path of life 
Many men's nerves fail in the strife. 
Oft trifles are the sum of human thing.s. 
So half our failures from foibles spring. 
Now let these simple lines to you teach. 
That many things are out of reach. 
And that money has been a hapless plan 
To many, ever since coining it began. 

AS MY LIFE I REVIEW 

With a graciousness of pure content. 

Of a friendly and healthy life I have spent. 

With a loveliness of a beautiful stream. 

That caused the time to pass like a dream: 

Of memories of all in a precious store, 

So what need had 1 to seek for more, < 

As I passed the last long space aglow 

With thoughts and hopes I used to know. 

Yet sometimes my eyes were dimmed with tears. 

15 



As ! wandered on for many passing years. 

How dear to my heart is the past I know; 

With the raptures of events of long ago. 

There are so many times when we speak 

But there's sometimes that we're cold and weak. 

That when thinking of them I can see 

They had some good points that agree 

With memories that are of a rare worth. 

And were usually passed as a mirth. 

With health and conscience clear. 

With plenty of work, and no fear. 

Pastime with a book I'd always find 

Some treasure to store in my mind, 

With mind and morals in my plan, 

I always feltTike a gentleman, 

I may be short of what cash might buy. 

But maybe few are richer in thoughts than I. 

For I have studied Nature as much as I could. 

And have investigated thoughts that are good. 

So that for the time that I've spent 1 am glad 

To know of the delights that 1 have had. 

Yet beyond all of these at length. 

They gave me some additional strength, 

As onward in life I battled along. 

All's well that passed by so strong. 

That this world was full of hope and glee, 

And it was generally pleasing to me. 

The longer we live, the briefer time appeals. 

For a day in childhood seems as a year. 

And the years seem like passing ages. 

Thus we all pass life in succeeding stages; 

And when we must meet our death. 

Is when we are all out of wnd and breath 

WISDOM AND COURAGE 

With enough wisdom to discern. 
And courage enough wrong to spurn. 
Popular opinion let all of us learn. 
That is something for us to concern. 
Broaden our vision with senses keen. 
To stand upright to all to be seen, 
And leave out all shortsightedness. 
So as our courage we confess. 
Rebuke all greed and bland hypocrisy. 
Weakness, and every foolish bigotry. 
Then we may triumph through love. 
Meet our neighbors like a dove. 
Choose the things that make for peace, 
So that contentment may increase. 
Let a conscience clear be your retreat. 
Thus brighten your life's path complete 

16 



I HAVE LEARNED TO KNOW 

One thing that I have learned to know; 

That while we travel onward as we go. 

And we move forward, and paths are made. 

We will have to lift loads that others laid. 

Which by nature's laws unseen, and still 

To us as unfathomed purpose to fulfill. 

At times we might go, at others we wait; 

Or move too fast, or perhaps too late. 

To help along weary travelers on the road. 

And help carry their burdens or load 

If they are weak and we are strong. 

To give them a chance to go along. 

So we may help them, for good or ill 

In order that they con't stand still. 

Do not crowd or crush the weak so! 

The portals of the many rich are wide. 

So why not give the weak a little show; 

For there ar'e many worse, at his side. 

Some call out for the lash or the brand. 

Whilst fraud and corruption reel on every hand. 

Be not so thoughtless of hapless man. 

Who has a mighty hard furrow to hoe. 

Fate often pushes him from a good plan. 

And makes him disheartened you know. 

He does not yearn for a mansion. 

Because he cares nothing for fancy or style. 

If he'll get brotherly aid, he will sanction. 

As joy fills his heart for a while. 

Then let gratitude gracefully flow. 

To aid and encourage the distressed, 

With cheer and love, that he'll know. 

You wish to calm a troubled breast. 

There is a quality of causal mind 

That's like a Tiger seeking prey; 

Upon their weakly fellows, rob or slay: 

And in their hunt, their pleasure find. 

If these lines a lesson has taught. 

And if it is sound, do not relent: 

If some worthy deeds you have wrought. 

The evening of your life's well spent. 

Give a helping hand to those in distrees. 

Do all you can to soothe and bless. 

HAVE YOU EVER HEARD TELL? 

Perhaps you have never heard tell 
Of a girl as a false made-up belle: 
With bangs pasted upon her brow; 
Who thinks she is a perfect picture now. 
With dreaming gaze of her eyes alight, 

17 



Expecting that we're dazzled by the sight 

So to hold us unwilling to linger near. 

Thus charming us by the material sphere. 

As spell bound by her coquettish ways, 

By the show of beauty she displays; 

Aided by her melodious bell-like voice. 

She's bound us to her against our choice. 

Girls generally cover their faults with care. 

So as to fool us when we are unaware. 

By making preparations that are great. 

Ensnaring us, so we cannot regulate 

Our ideas about them, otherwise 

But they were angles from the skies. 

As if this is only a world of dreams, 

To catch us by their well laid schemes. 

I guess we can learn, if we watch out. 

Many things we should know about. 

If she is mostly a faulty make-up, 

Let's go slow to drink from her cup. 

And be very slow to take a dare. 

Lest there be a false make-up there. 

So let's wait and watch for a while, 

Before we be ensnared by her smile; 

Or get paralyzed by her on the spot; 

And be her victim and know it not. 

Or that 'twas her wit, our fancy did get. 

So others will criticize greater yet. 

With jeers and scoffs to tantalize 

Us more that we realize. 

So it will be better to go slow. 

Than have to take all in one blow. 

But of all poems you have ever heard 

This is perhaps the most absurd. 

And of all poetic yarns, great or small. 

This one, no doubt, will beat them alL 

As I sit and write by an electric light, 

I thought that it was not just right 

Thus to choose the female gender out. 

And of the male faults say naught about. 

When my thoughts rose a little higher. 

Perhaps I ought to throw it in the fire. 

GOOD DEEDS 

The child dwells in a charming clime. 
When life is a dream of fairies bright; 
Swift moments pass on border of time 
Like traces of eternity's joyful light. 
Innocence has its longing eyes to gaze 
Through many fondly, bright delusions. 
As the babe in glee passes each day. 
With wistful, or betrayed confusion. 



If this world is but a fleeting show 
As it is said, just for our illusion. 
Then let us strive to make it go. 
To prove it a false conclusion. 
And change it all into bright bowers. 
Listen to the birds among the flowers; 
With our good light hearted chums, 
Drive out all viciousness of our mind. 
Cultivate all the just and good deeds. 
Your life well spent, you will find, 
To humanity, is the best of creeds, 
As we are changing day by day. 
And of many things we have done; 
Some have multiplied, others pass away. 
Part we cherish, others we shun. 
And good ones make the welkin ring 
As we praise them with a shout; 
But the shunned ones are another thing 
That we really should forget about. 
As they, in the v/orld blunder through. 
The good we will always enjoy. 
Knowing they are for me and you. 
As the ages grind, and time employ, 
Each little share we will live again. 
And multiply in time here below; 
To increase our pleasure, but no pain 
As through the various changes they go. 
We will endeavor to put some away. 
When multitudes of them come; 
That they may be good any day. 
And we can enjoy them at home. 
When for them we will have heeds. 
To use some of them for others. 
Because they are all good deeds 
To our sisters and our brothers. 
1 will not ponder more this speech. 
Nor gaze infinitude, for to see. 
Ripples to find, or fables to reach, 
Because this should be enough for thee. 

TRUE COURAGE OF FRIENDSHIP 

I think of all of human relations. 
True friendship should be the finest. 
Between the inhabitants of all nations, 
It should invariably be the kindest. 
So that its presence may be known 
By its most mysterious, kindly touch. 
That others will meet with our own. 
To be tangible to one another as such. 
And be thrilled by its subtle message. 
To spring from kindly associations 

19 



Very close, but not of brief lessage; 

By reaching eagerly for affections. 

Toward one another in a magnetic union. 

Come to each in the midst of undertakings 

With an apprehension of occult trueion. 

That there's no meditative underwakings. 

As a conflict for phosphorescent flame. 

That you can comprehensively compare. 

With its brilliant oscillations the same 

As it is swiftly floating through the air. 

Of a shooting star luminously a trailing 

Across the canopy of the deep blue sky. 

But be not a spiritual sensitive failing, 

To develope a conflagration and die. 

But be established, never to be broken: 

And not a tragedy of such a friendship 

By any deceitful influence be spoken, 

Nor by any untoward lines of penship. 

The world's opinion, if it show objection. 

Forget not that it often sinks out of view, 

So we may often give it our rejection. 

If it interferes with it, between me and you. 

It frequently plays on chessboards of fate. 

And is apt to disagree with our conviction. 

Showing it to be irresponsible underrate; 

Like many a romance composed of fiction. 

And often drives noble character into exile. 

Instead of striving to give it alleviation 

By meeting human betterment with a smile; 

Thus changing friendship to aggravation. 

So let us help all truth and all progress. 

Not with hostile hate or opposition. 

Or profuse lamentation of retrogress; 

But give it a moral trust and recognition. 

Meet it, not like a winter landscape that cleaves 

The light extinguished by sunshine hidden. 

And a wind whistling through the withered leaves. 

Causing a forlorn aspect as if forbidden. 

Strive to be of some service to others, 

And be a soldier of the common good; 

Meet all as our sisters and brothers. 

And all humanity as one brotherhood. 

All great souls, and all great natures 

Should reach across chasms of separation, 

Which may dispel the gloom of creatures. 

And thus create a glorious illumination. 

Make your creed be, go hand-in-hand, 

As you help me, and I'll help you. 

Then let's march throughout the land 

Saying to all, let your friendship be true. 

And when you meet any Pharisee, 

20 



^ 



Or others that prove to be really untrue, 
Expose them fearlessly to the breeze, 
And recognize them not, by all of you 

DELIGHTFUL APRIL 

The eaves of the roof were lined with snow, 

And the time's here for maple sap to begin running; 

On the top of an old elm tree limb there sits a crow. 

Rubbing the feathers of his wings, while sunning. 

And life is swelling every bud and stalk, 

Erstwhile the green buds of mayflower lie; 

And the boys are making circles with chalk, 

As the pleasant hours of April are going by. 

Whilst the white pine stems are yet gray, 

As the moist, low, soft south winds blow. 

And the sun's quite warm at mid-day. 

As through the pasture the sheep herds go. 

Whilst many bluebirds are sweetly singing. 

And the tassels of the pussywillows look so queer. 

As the branches of the poplars are swinging. 

With the green meadow grows quite near. 

Some burrowing creatures are peeping out 

Near some brown tufts of a mossy pillow. 

As they come creeping, with their snout 

Towards the trunks of some weeping willow 

Beyond is a cluster of sweet violets so blue. 

It's delightful when all the world's awaking. 

And the sky is painted in a soft hue. 

Whilst fresh air our lungs are taking. 

Yet some folks are always discontented 

With most everything, no matter what it be. 

But with April pleasures sweetly scented 

We will surely enjoy it, you and me. 

THE HARVEST MOON 

The days are usually brightest at noon. 
The nights the brightest at harvest moon. 
And the summer's leaves here and there 
Are fluttering as they descend in the air. 
The matured leaves of autumn now 
Show rainbow tints on every bough. 
As they are flushed by nature's dyes 
Of brilliant colors under the skies. 
Though most of the leaves seem dead 
They are colored like on canvas spread. 
With the tints all scattered in between. 
Thus making a gorgeous painted scene. 
The leaves are constantly dropping at dawn. 
And a spreading all over the lawn. 
As well as out upon the paved street 
And are trampled by the horses feet. 

21 



Thus they are bruised upon the ground 

And blown by the wind all around. 

When the nights are generally clear 

The leaves are the finest of the year. 

As the lovely harvest moon shines bright, 

With its radiant, lustrous, mellow light. 

The hunter will go out pretty soon 

To capture the tender, fat, raccoon. 

Which with sweet potatoes makes a dish 

As fine as any epicure would wish. 

Should Thanksgiving day come apace, 

The 'coon can take the turkey's place'. 

And make a meal filled with delight. 

Sumptuous enough for any appetite. 

It's the finest season of the year. 

Ere the winter comes so cold and clear. 

When fresh from off the mountain's-side 

The evening shadows softly glide. 

When the scent of fruit comes to town. 

And when the thistles shed their down, . 

As o'er the hills creeps the lazy swan. 

Give me the time of a harvest moon. 

THERE ARE MANY 

There are many trails that are unbroken, 
There are many good words not spoken. 
There are many pathways not very clean. 
There are many places not fit to be seen. 
There are many that follow through passes, 
There are many that act like jack-asses. 
There are many that through life stumble. 
There are many that always do grumble. 
There are many that sing a bad song. 
There are many that sigh all the day long. 
There are many that oppose natural knowledge. 
There are many that pass through college. 
There are many that pass through open doors. 
There are many that dance on slippery floors. 
There are many that are not any better. 
There are many that can't write a letter. 
There are many clinics you'll find as frauds. 
There are many hypocrites that pray to Gods. 
There are many court rooms that are a sham. 
There are many church members not worth a dam, 
There are many workers that are really slaves. 
There are many preachers that are knaves. 
There are many females that beckon you on. 
There are many angels, but most all gone. 
There are many family circles thaf are bright. 
There are many others that are really a fright. 
There are many loving ones that are a-grieving, 

11 



There are many that are most deceiving. 
There are many whose love is very pure. 
There are many others whose love is not sure. 
There are many items that are true, 
There are many others, no good to you. 
There are many that are bold and bad. 
There are many others you'd better not had. 
There are many that are mischievious schemers. 
There are many that are only dreamers. 
There are many, as friends, prove true, 
There are many that only disturb you. 
There are many that are very sublime. 
But Evolution will right the wrong in time. 

THE WAY OF THE WORLD 

'Tis true, altho' it is sad to say, 
Many disputes are arising every day. 
You'd think, if no one did deny it. 
That common sense can keep it quiet. 
Discriminate discreetly to foe and friend, 
Never grasp a hornet by its stinging end. 
Comparing things with your open eyes. 
With sense, then you'll not get a surprise. 
Then you'll find that in a proper sphere, 
Others would with dignity appear. 
And none would get into a passion, 
Or quarrel with you in vulgar fashion. 
They would think more of you no doubt, 
Then learn to have less to talk about. 
And greet you pleasantly with grace. 
By showing you respect in every place. 
Don't esteem a man by his spread of sail. 
Remember a peacock has a gorgeous tail. 
For respect of others, cultivate your own. 
Otherwise 'tis best to let them alone. 
For then perhaps you'd never hear 
Tales about you that might sound queer; 
That make you laugh or make you cry. 
Perhaps hear something you can't deny. 
And you put up a retalitating creaking. 
Make more trouble by their speaking. 
Until one that's bold enough will interpose 
Make them learn to keep their mouth closed. 
Then their meanness would be naught. 
When they had been better taught. 
And all would think that it was right 
To have learned them how to be polite. 
You may get into a deal of trouble. 
Enough at times to bend you double. 
It's true you may oft meet with abuse. 
But retaliation is not always of use. 

23 



So if you wish content, you may find it 

Best by passing by and don't mind it. 

Then their remarks will be void, 

If you can show you are not annoyed. 

For if all their false and fool'sh fudge 

Is not true, 'twill then be but a drudge. 

And then it would soon all pass away. 

No matter what falsehoods they say. 

If all their slanders are not true, 

Although the intention was to injure you. 

It sometimes happens that good things drop. 

But empty bubbles always float on top. 

So you had better let me be your adviser. 

And teach you to learn to be some wiser. 

And remember these common sense rules. 

Although 1 did not learn them in schools. 

There is no sense, that I can see. 

For mortals, such as you and me, 

A fault finding with Nature's intent, 

With either kind of weather that's sent; 

So when it storms and the tempests rave. 

Keep calm, and wonder why it don't behave. 

And now what I've said I will repeat, 

"Let common sense rule to the end complete." 

I SAY JUST TO PASS THE TIME AWAY 

Now that I am here at my home, 
I will give you thoughts that're strong; 
So I will write out this inspired poem. 
And it will not take me so very long. 
Will talk with you very frank. 
And speak very pointedly and plain; 
So you need not consider me a crank. 
Because from riddles I shall refrain. 
When I first sailed over the ocean wide. 
Into lands of foreign fame roam, 
I sailed many moons in high and low tide, 
Quite a while before they heard from me at home. 
There is no path in the desert waste. 
For the winds are always shifting the sands; 
Trails are blind where storms have raced. 
And a stranger was I in those foreign lands. 
But I journeyed on with a careful tread; 
Observed, but never faltered or turned aside. 
And always noticed objects just ahead. 
And used caution and right as my guide. 
Also there is no path on the trackless sea. 
No map is laid on the restless ocean wave. 
At first snares were strange to me. 
Where often unseen snares do rave; 
But I soon learned to watch as they came. 
And managed so as to toss them aside, 
24 



By keeping sober, and always to be sane, 
And always using common sense as my guide. 
I never loafed on any job, nor acted tired. 
For I knew that there was some work to do. 
And loafing was not for which I was hired; 
And so to keep my job, to work I was true. 

CAN YOU PROVE 

It's plain to prove that five and two are seven. 
And I would like to have you come and tell 
Me w^here is the location of your heaven. 
And then try to do the same with hell. 
There are some things that're good and some bad. 
There are many things false, likewise may true; 
Some things occur that we wish never had 
Been exhibited to either me or to you. 
That snow is good for fields of winter wheat. 
And many other things are of sterling worth. 
But frost and wet are not good for your feet. 
So you'll find many things upon this earth. 
When the setting sun shines beyond the hill. 
And sends the crest of the last light of today. 
With reflections scintillating and a thrill. 
As the rosy gleam blends with the gray. 
When all the world is flush and young. 
And thoughts exists on gold and mystic page. 
This is the "Golden Age" the poet sung, 
"But it is a Fiction," this golden age. 
A few more rounds and the battle is o'er. 
And money bags gain the fate of today. 
So it's forejudged fate for once more 
By the critics socials of the affray. 
Because society calls it a just decree. 
And hides its bosom of sin and shame. 
Pretends not truth's tears to see. 
And claims it has an upright name. 
It's their nature to prey upon one another. 
And it's their nature to be sinning. 
Cheat and beat each other's brother. 
That's what they do from the begining. 
But back of them all stands the schemer. 
Watching the one who drives things through. 
And back of them all is the dreamer 
Whose brains makes dreams come true. 
But it is wrong, ancient doctrines to preach. 
Thus turning minds from loftier strains. 
By turning, unbalancing the thoughts of each 
That should teach truths to worthy brains. 
If you should regard these lines as serious. 
And find no cause to think them tedium, 
For they certainly are not very mysterious. 
Although to you some might appear as medium. 

25 



THE OLD PARTNERS QUARREL 

So you think that I should /io better, you mean; 
That, my dear friend, remains to be seen. 
Although we have been chums all our lives. 
And both have been busy as bees in their hives. 
And partners in trade for these many years; 
Always have agreed in our plans, so it appears. 
So now let us talk frankly of things just as they are, 
And see if we cannot conclude on points as fair. 
You may think that 1 am in the wrong, perhaps; 
But it might be possible you're of the average chaps. 
And think that your intelligence is bright and quick. 
And 1 might think that your methods are too slick. 
And that your mind is too lofty, with strains 
Of unusual b'ood pressure onto your brains, 
Causing thereby your edict of pride or of pelf; 
Which makes me declare you think too much of self 
So now, let us try the matter to adjust or mend. 
In such a rational manner to each, as a friend. 
Old friend, let us avoid any rubbish to preach. 
And adjust unbalanced values so that each. 
By setting things fairly, in a lovable trait. 
So as to divide equally the entire estate. 
I am sure that if I were you, and you were me. 
Both could each other see, our thoughts would agree. 

EASY SAILING 

Human life is like a swift-running stream. 
And it is difficult to stem its tide. 
For the boat moves at starting, we seem 
So easy, we feel like just letting it glide. 
We may hear the wind roaring on the track. 
That we imagine its noise will break. 
And you think it will be easy to pull back. 
When it looks as if danger's in its wake. 
And we imagine that it's all smooth sailing, 
During life's early, young vigorous hours. 
Whilst singing, and each other hailing. 
And admiring the banks covered with flowers. 
Sure we enjoy passing others when drifting. 
And seeing them pulling as they go up stream. 
We laugh at their rowing and lifting. 
While we drift smooth, like a dream. 
And when they warn us of dangers below, 
Telling us to beware of Life's troubles. 
We're thinking only of our pleasure, as we go; 
And marvelling at their hard struggles. 
Experience in life is of value, advice is cheap. 
But it is not always wisdom that it brings. 
Often, when too late, knowledge we reap: 

26 



And we pluck it with the cost or stings. 
And it's tough, when you're in the torrent. 
You find it's not easy to turn back. 
When you meet trouble that's abhorrent. 
Or plunge down over the dams cataract. 

THE NEEDED RAIN 
The clouds came, then the wind died. 
And the thrush on an elm-bough cried. 
Then the linnet ceased to sing on the fence. 
And the mute clouds grew very dense. 
Then they all waited for the needed rain. 
Spreading gradually over valley and plain: 
With a splatter over the thirsty earth. 
Bringing freshness that follows the dearth. 
And the lisping leaves drank their fill. 
To give life to the woodland rill. 
As the gentle breezes pass over fragant plots 
Of bright johnie-jump-ups and for-get-me-nots. 
Refreshing air made it a cooler place, 
So that the tadpoles wiggled with grace. 
Whilst the mud turtle warbled his note, 
And the bullfrog tunes up his throat. 
As a calm rests upon the wet shield. 
And fragrance sweeps over the field. 
As we hear the shrill croaking of toads. 
Along the bottoms of the muddy roads; 
And a hawk sailed by with a dreary motion. 
Onward toward the border of the ocean. 

ENVY NOT 
Envy not the poor man's pride. 
Because his purse has byt pennies inside. 
And often cannot call a dollar his own. 
And many times a sting of grief is known. 
Although with a flaunting pauper's lot. 
But perhaps it is a noble soul he's got. 
And of genuine money he's unpossessed. 
But with good common sense he is blessed. 
He may not bear the sorrows of wealth. 
But he enjoys life and very good health. 
To him, many more ways there are 
Than having cash out on interest, at par. 
Without any desolation on his part. 
He carries the sweetest notes at heart. 
Passes through the world with tender praise, 
Of a cheerful mind and busy days. 
Pauses to give life a good expression. 
Of thanks for what he has possession. 
Even he has not got any wealth. 
He has what's better — good health. 
And all of his family are so sound. 
Because they are healthy all around. 
27 



MY APOLOGY 

In business I am a never mind, 

And you are a 1 don't care. 

But today I am rather inclined 

To acknowledge we are both unfair. 

For you have called me a fool and slave, 

And I have called you a liar and knave. 

Perhaps 1 was right, for you surely abused 

The right of fair speech in the names you used. 

And I asked, "were your actions honest and fair" 

Then you "squeal", when I said what I dare; 

You grumbled because I haven't said less 

When your mean actions gave me distress. 

So after thinking it over, I am sure we two 

Have done things that we honestly knew 

Were perhaps, not quite brotherly or fair. 

But you began to put trouble in the air. 

Though, of course, I cannot escape a touch 

Of "suspicion" that you never knew too much. 

PLAIN FACTS 

To be patient is not so easy, you will find; 
But you can always be pleasant and kind. 
Yet, it is sometimes quite hard to be good. 
Therefore we don't always do just as we should. 
We are apt, now and then, to be grouchy or ill; 
If so, try your best not to show it; keep still- 
Be a kind of a fellow that meets despair, 
No matter whether life brings joy or care. 
Although you feel somewhat worried or blue. 
Smile; and then others will smile too. 
It pays to look cheerful, when down. 
As your're apt to banish friendship by a frown. 
Bad humor is often quite outrageous; 
But good humor is always contagious. 

NATURAL CHANGES 

It is true that all things must change; 

At first thought, you may think it strange. 

Observe the landscape and all its maze. 

In time, by storms, much of it is razed. 

The wind mill's arms swing and soar; 

But when comes a calm, they swing no more. 

As springtime comes, so do the blue birds. 

But in the fall you'll find them go in herds. 

The moon will full, and then 'twill wane, 

And misty clouds turn into rain. 

And then in course of time, I explain. 

Change rain to mist, then to c'oud again. 

At noon time we get reflected light. 

In twelve hours we get dark of night. 

28 



We have cobalt blue in summer's sky. 

In winter, fields of snow white lie. 

Today we may meet, face to face — _ 

Tomorrow, the grave be resting place. 

So it changes inhabitants of this earth. 

Whatever be their rank or worth. 

HUMAN EVOLUTION 

Human progress has been an accomplishment. 
By means of a struggle with environment, 
And has proceeded through successive stages 
Of the physical aspects for many ages. 
Most any one willing, who tries, can 
Comprehend conciously nature's plan. 
That a person whose perfect or rightly planned. 
Is the Noblest work of Nature in the land. 
So they can reason 'ogically, and share 
The Why, the How, and the Whence, unaware. 
Why everything in Nature follows as planned. 
When we study and gain wisdom to understand. 
We will not have to grope blindly over the way. 
But be able to comprehend causes every day. 
After we are given knowledge of what is right. 
Then we eagerly follow Nature's light. 
Evolution, flow on in your greatness and pride. 
Until all can meet true civilization's tide. 

WORTH THINKING ABOUT 

If you have friends that're worth your loving. 
Why not tinge their brow with a sunset covering: 
And if you think them a good loving dear. 
Why not give them, in life, your words of cheer. 
Why should not such friends your good will share. 
Your kind words, before their funeral prayer. 
Why should the praises of them not be said 
About them, to others, until they are dead. 
Why should your spirit of loving be proud, 
And pass by like a shooting star, or fleeting cloud. 
As a fiash of lightning, or the break of waves. 
As they pass from life, to rest in their graves. 
Let the memory of those we love always be praise 
During life, and before their mind-life is erased. 
Before the young and old, the low and high. 
Are mouldering in dust, as in the grave they lie. 
Or the maid, whose cheeks and her blue eye 
Shine beauty and health, her triumphs go by. 
The father or mother, or infant at the breast. 
Each and all are laid in their dwelling-of-rest. 
The peasant, whose lot was to sow and to reap. 
Also the banker, who loaned out money cheap. 
As well as the beggar, who begged for some bread; 

29 



Fade away like the grass that we tread, 

And the saint, who hoped to enjoy his heaven; 

Also the sinner, who dared to be unforgiven. 

The wise and the foolish, the guilty and just. 

Must quietly mingle their bones in the dust. 

The eye of the sage, and the heart of the brave. 

Are hidden and lost in the depth of the grave. 

They all drank water, and felt the same sun. 

And followed the same course that others have run. 

The multitude goes, like the flowers or weeds. 

And wither away, to let others succeed. 

They all die, and we the living people of Now, 

Walk over the turf that covers their brow. 

Yes; hope or despondency, happy or pain. 

Mingle together like sunshine and rain. 

As the wink of an eye, or the drawing of breath. 

We pass from Joy-of-health, to the plea-of-death. 

Through death's dark vale we all must go. 

But to where, is more than we know. 

To each fine impulse there is a discerning sense. 

Active and strong — yet sublime in recompense. 

And if reading these facts gives you no charm. 

Do not get nervous; they will do no harm. 

THE BUDDING SEASON 

To hear the gentle murmuring of the rills. 

As the pleasant winds go through the trees over the hills. 

And to see the full moon, glorious in her silver dress. 

Trailing overhead from east to west in her quietness. 

Along the margin of the tideless lake so lazy. 

While its surface beyond looks to be hazy. 

As the forest sheds its perfume in the air; 

And the league of deep twilight is so fair. 

When the gentle breeze finally dies away. 

And the silence then resumes its sway. 

And on earth, on the air, your mind is at ease. 

No sounds would fill your soul like these. 

The heavens above were a beautiful blue. 

Here and there fleecy clouds going through. 

So that everything all around you just looked 

Like the page of a nice colored picture book. 

With the shrubs and flowers with us again. 

They're so familiar that we're glad to refrain. 

Whilst natures cheering beauty flows. 

As 'tis the years lovliest time to repose; 

While the sunshine through the leaves, smiles. 

And sheds the odors down the grassy aisles; 

How languid throbs our pulse for hours. 

While springtime is unfolding flowers. 



30 



_ SEEKING A JOB 

Most any man can learn to study clear. 

If he will not take a negative view, or fear. 

The secret of your success should be, 

Definitely have an attitude so as to see, 

To concentrate your mind as best you can. 

That your thoughts center on your plan. 

Success does not always follow endeavor, 

Unless you are willing to repeat forever. 

Andi follow it until you find the right lead; 

Then your application is apt to succeed. 

My heart was beating with a throb. 

The first time 1 went to land a job, 

With trepidation 1 was watching the throng 

Of applicants for a job, as they passed along, 

With steady tramp of their rythmic feet; 

Each answering questions, anothers repeat. 

He knew men by the duds that they wear; 

As you can tell good wheat from the tare. 

And generally the sharper, by his stare; 

A fool or a shirk, by his stand he'd compare, 

And guess at the load that each can bear. 

As well as the dreamer of visions in air. 

So when it came my turn to use my voice, 

1 answered as best I could, hoping to be the choice. 

And 1 observed the questioner listened to me 

So attentively that I thought I could see, 

There'd likely be logic in his conclusion. 

So that I waited without any confusion; 

That 'twould wind up like this; he'd say — 

Well young man, you're the lucky chap today. 

A decision some would not apprehend. 

It's more than some could comprehend. 

And 1 will try to make him realize 

That this action positively was wise. 

1 will always be content, calm, and cool. 

And stick to the good old golden rule. 

Be honest and sane in my carreer, 

Show all the best respect, without fear, 

So that people I meet will say. 

Well kind sir, how is yourself today. 

I will lead a contented, happy life. 

And be careful never to mix in any strife. 

WHAT'S RIGHT IS NEVER WRONG 

With stupendous thoughts of nature's awe. 
When they are enwrapped with nature's law. 
We have thoughts we never had before. 
When we listen to the atmosphere roar. 
It often sets our weary brains all awhirl, 

31 



Seeing streaks of lightning and clouds unfurl. 
And the southeast wind, rushing warm, 
As it plunges through the thunderstorm. 
They think that for them, these desires; 
Perhaps the thoughts is what inspires. 
And is the cause for them to contrive 
From end to end to a meaning to airive. 
There are some who's thoughts have run, 
Whose faith is that his goal is won; 
Because his faith is worthy and right. 
Therefore thinks he has won the fight. 
Death is something who.'^e end is sure. 
Visions of a soul and faith ensure. 
This terror— this darkness of mind, 
Is the hope's faith of flaring rest to find; 
That the glittering light of reason can disperse. 
But only nature's aspect of law can reverse. 
Teaching us, hath this exordium forlorn; — 
Nothing from nothing ever yet was born. 
Fear holds dominion over mortal's head, 
Thus superstitution was over humanity shed. 
Only because ignorance was sky so fair. 
Men thought Divinities are working there. 
Thus the human race for ages are a-drifting; 
But Evolution is leading to her up-lifting. 

THE BEAUTIES OF NATURE 

Come with me to the woods and the fields; 
There you'll find the beauty that Nature yields. 
See the feathery acacia, most graceful of trees. 
Stands up so majestic as it waves in the breeze. 
And the lambs gently gambol as we're passing by. 
And see, at a distance, volcanos lifted high. 
Also the silvery brook flowing through the wood. 
Seeming to be breathing a joy of brotherhood. 
As it dances down to the rivulet, foaming white. 
It seems a tumult of feathers in a flight. 
With its wavelets running and leaping in glee. 
As it glides out and is 'ost to sight in the sea. 
Where we see ships with their sails unfurled. 
Laden with cargoes for all parts of the world. 

KEEP IN THE RIGHT WAY 

This world is full of snares and pitfalls. 
And people more ready to growl than to bless. 
Who will be apt to jeer you with their calls. 
But always face your duty, without distress. 
Do not let them disturb you by what they say. 
But a true devotion to duty a lever will prove; 
Turn your path to the right, and go that way, 
And you will find that the obstacles will move. 

32 



And you'll observe that sweetness mixes with gall. 
As the daintiest rose, by thorns is mixed. 
But the fragrance of the rose is Best of all, 
Even if the rose-stem with thorns is transfixed. 
Thus in striking your balance of profit and loss. 
Always to your duty attend, and keep pegging away; 
At the end, life's good will outbalance the dross. 
If always you see you keep in the Right Way. 

THE BEAUTIES OF AUTUMN 

Nature, in autumn, before she calls the freezing breeze 

To strip the ripening leafy dress from the trees. 

Goes upon a tour, with color and brush. 

And paints the foliage a gold and silver blush. 

No more in summer breezes will they romp and dance. 

They are now preparing for the winter's bleak advance. 

She's strewing wild asters by nature's lavish hand, 

Velvet heads of sumac and golden rod in the land. 

Erstwhile the scent of wild grapes fills the air. 

As they await but a touch of frost to turn them fair. 

Whilst the song of birds, and the hum of insects, low. 

There is a £,ladriess in the mellow light's glow. 

And the bounty of the woodland paths, lose 

The freshness of green of the summer 's close. 

THE REAL GROUCHER 

1 do not see much joy in my life. 
Because it is full of toil and strife. 
As I wander home to my wife: 
She irritates my nerves into a grife. 
.So that most of my time is a bore, 
From the time that I enter the door. 
So that often I wish I'd gone before. 
To that place called the other shore. 
To lighten my load 1 began to plead. 
And it brings me to a more dire need. 
On account of her grouch and greed, 
Then I try to get up more speed. 
To eat my meal, then go to the town. 
And travel the streets up and down. 
With my features showing a frown. 
So that folks seem to think I'm a clown. 
After 1 had tramped about a mile, 
I began to study myself after a while. 
Thinking that perhaps it's my beguile; 
And that finally caused me to smile. 
Then after a while I began to think. 
Perhaps it's myself that's the blink; 
So, towards home 1 began to slink. 
I had better give wife all my chink; 
Tell her that I now wish to explain 

33 



That perhaps myself was to blame. 
And I'd beg her pardon just the same. 
Hereafter I'll play a much fairer game. 
That made things look more bright. 
Since I see things in a better light, 
And I will try to do so with all my might 
This brought my home great delight, 
Thus you see, sometimes life is cold. 
If sympathy, in small measure is doled; 
And it makes many to be a regular scold, 
For the want of justice to unfold. 
So always do unto others, just as you 
Wish others to do unto you too. 

AN AUTUMN IDEAL 

We seek the beauties of these hills. 

Surrounded by woodlands and rills. 

Some birds twitter their melodious sounds. 

As the mountain stream goes over the grounds 

The scene is laid with beauties rare. 

With emerald shades scattered everywhere. 

The forests have put on the autumn cloaks. 

With festal stage, sumacs, maples, and oaks. 

The quaint, old-fashioned hoollyhocks 

That grow behind low walls of rocks; 

Their crimson, even the red rose defies. 

And their pinks are like the morning skies. 

As their hues, the very rainbow mocks. 

With their flimsy robes as dainty frocks. 

We lingered there until the sun went down. 

Before we started to go to town. 

Night loomed outside, dark on high. 

With a thousand stars shining in the sky. 

WHO KNOWS NOT FEAR 

Who knows not fear, is master of his fate; 
But is swift to act, and does not hesitate. 
To each boon some payment must be made; 
So do not miss it, and be not afraid. 
All your desires may see fulfillment then; 
Otherwise you'll be left, like the weaker men 
Who wish the prize, but are full of fears. 
And when they lose, have painful tears. 
Its grit you will need, you will find. 
To make your nerves obey your mind. 
And you will have to try, so as to know 
How far your will can make j'ou go. 
And you'll have to know, without a guess, 
Just how much courage you possess: 
So as to learn to play a successful game. 
And gain by triumph, without a blame. 

34 



So that those who stand and wait. 
Will see you gain proportions great. 
You will win because you dare to contrive. 
By your faith, through which you survive. 
In all life's fortunes, good and bad, 
Nothing can rob you of the joy you've had. 

A FRIEND OF VARYING MOODS 

Give me a friend of varying moods; 

Meet him in any of nature's solitudes. 

At home, or in the noisy city street; 

That will shake hands wherever we meet: 

Who is faithful, and on whom, I depend. 

For a quiet chat, to meet me in my den. 

Thus spend an hour or two any day. 

And knows exactly when to go away. 

Or who can let the world go by. 

Still argue with good propriety: 

So that neither would suffer a pang, 

Or have a thought to care a dang. 

Stil) be friends, and speak quite free, 

But understand when enough to agree. 

To have no weakness, or social chill, 

Or doubt erf any fortitude of good will. 

One, whose conscience feels human woe. 

And shares its joys with a friendly glow. 

One who, when I'm sick or glum. 

For my dear sake will become 

A friend without any selfishness; 

Console me, and love me none the less; 

And can lay conventions on the shelf. 

And be a cosmopolitan, like myself. 

And find me not to be the worse. 

Even if at times I praise or curse; 

But rate me just what I am worth. 

And can still share my grief or mirth. 

In our mind and morals, have a plan 

That we treat each other as a gentleman. 

I never make diagrams about him. 

Nor analyze his faults with vim. 

And if at times he may seem unruly. 

He's always 'been square with "yours truly' 

When he has anything about me to say, 

It is always the same, before me, or away 

And he's ever ready to give or to lend. 

I'll always like him as a friend. 

THE CAREFUL AUTHOR 

When I wish to study, to improve my mind, 
I like thought-gems, brilliant and refined: 
I care not if it's from sage, poet, or seer: 

35 



But I want him to make his meaning clear 
The writer who is progressive and wise. 
Will always study that he don't use lies. 
His thought and words be so plain and great, 
So that the reader can grasp their weight. 
For there is no sense to print any dope. 
That the reader gives up to gauge its scope. 
For the writer who gives us stuff badly bent. 
Makes it hard for all to know what's meant. 
But careful ones write straight up and down. 
And his meaning is plain to all in town. 

THE PHILOSOPHER'S LECTURE 

You asked, what did 1 think of the discourse. 

That is, of the Philosopher's Lecture last night. 

I will answer that it was very good, of course. 

And that he put everything in a good light. 

There were nowhere in it any flaws, 

In his plain definition of nature's laws. 

All his points were taken of good concern 

Of things that the whole human race should learn. 

He explained some of Nature's laws of wonder, 

When he related the effect and cause of thunder. 

And of the lightning, and of electricity. 

With such distinction and simplicity; 

Of rain, and hail, of frost, and snow. 

Of the storms, and causes why winds do blow. 

Also the growth of flowers and vegetation 

In the various countries of this creation: 

And of other natural wonders — more 

Of which many persons never heard before. 

He undoubtedly told us all about it. 

Therefore there is no room to doubt it. 

And jt was very clear that he's not gabby, 

It would be unjust to say that he's blabby 

But stil), it is true, we all have some failings, 

I don't think that he had any quailings. 

Therefore 1 have not the least doubt 

That he knew exactly what he talked about. 

Truth should always gain against wrong 

And it should invaiiably be so strong. 

In every nation under the life-giving sun. 

So emphatic that all should see that it won. 

HE LIVES TWICE 

He lives twice, who can at once employ 
The present well; and the past, enjoy. 
Reviews his life, and in the strict survey 
Finds not one moment he could wish away. 
Such a man extends his life's short space, 

36 



And from the goal again renews the race. 
And some brave young man's untimely fate. 
In words worth dying for, he'd celebrate. 
He is a friend whom I will hold well-blest, 
And richly compensate for bad, of the rest. 
One who will listen, when all looks black. 
And will not criticise me behind my back. 
Some may, with care, eloquence try to teach, 
Yet, to some just idioms fix doubtful speech: 
And to give some thoughts that are good. 
But try to slip in some that are falsehood. 

MY TRAVELS OVER THE GLOBE 

1 will trj' to compose my trips in rhyme. 

Sea-faring voyages in my younger time; 

And mix in a little religion, such as I ween. 

Some that I've studied, that I've seen. 

I found that if you follow Nature's rules. 

You can learn more than by going to schools: 

Beginning, like trees, by starting at the roots; 

Learning to discriminate, makes good shoots. 

Do not rush along too rapidly, wait and see. 

Let no ill-luck discourage, keep mind on thee; 

When comes the hour your honor's strength to test. 

They who prove true, are always the best. 

I left Quincy home in eighteen fifty-nine. 

To go as second cook to Memphis, for a time. 

The next spring, on steamer Louisiana, 

Dressed in Kentucky jeans, and a bandana; 

Cook on boat until 7th November, to New Orleans, 

Then to sea, to Boston, the place of baked beans. 

Hi, ho, here I go sailing around upon the sea, 

\^ hich was a new experience to me. 

So for a while I will evacuate the land. 

And try upon the rolling deck to stand. 

With the hope it will not prove disconsolate. 

So with the tumult of time, I'll trust to fate. 

When we sailing round Cape Hatteras, 

The rough, chopping sea bounced us like a mattress 

And when the stern went up, the bow went down; 

I thought we certainly would all get drown. 

To me, sea-faring seemed to be entirely out of tune; 

With the expectation of howling winds soon. 

But our Yankee sailors were full of nerve; 

They vied with each other to do, and to serve. 

Still I had a dread, tried to keep it concealed. 

And waited to see what the ocean revealed. 

Was careful not to stumble into ways of wrong; 

Remember in my journey as I traveled along. 

To try to shun everything mean. 

In politics and religion, be calm and serene. 

37 



This world is fu'l of troubles, but 1 let 'em go. 
The next day, serene peace may glow. 
Looked around for something to give employ. 
Then life would give me sweetest joy. 
I went from Boston to port of Chaileston, 
Where we found politics all upside down. 
The nation was all in nervous oppression, 
Sizzling hot over threatened secession. 
There I heard the first shot of the war. 
When the Star-of-the-West met a bar. 
To relieve Fort Sumpter with some food; 
But the natives were not in a right mood. 
So the steamer, to New York, must return; 
Fort Sumpter's men for food had to yearn. 
Next we went to Savanah for cotton. 
About the last load for a Yankee bottom, 
To be carried across the briney ocean; 
The idea, at first, put me in a commotion. 
The thought of me crossing the Atlantic, 
Almost made me trepidatingly frantic. 

It is educational to travel up and down. 
Over the world to places of renown, 
And to ride across the briny ocean. 

See, at night, the phosphorescent motion. 

We sailed up the river, Mersey, grand and wide. 

Where she meets waters of salt-seas tide. 

To the fine docks, and went inside. 

At last 1 landed upon the English shore. 

Where I could stretch out my limbs once more. 

Rambled about old Liverpool all day. 

Observing its parks, docks, and quay. 

We met heavy fogs that filled the air, 

Saw heavy truck horses everywhere. 

Saw red-coat soldiers being drilled. 

And many basins, by fountains filled. 

Besides many statues of their Kings, 

Large museums with antique things. 

From Liverpool we cruised north to Troun, 

Loaded up and sailed to Rio Janreio in June. 

From there we next sailed off to Asia. 

So, around the world, we then sailed away. 

When at Cape Good Hope we met a storm. 

That, to me, was something quite forlorn. 

A terrible East India North-east Monsoon, 

Had to float with it, as if ship was a loon. 

Waves and wind, with great fury prevail. 

So strong, we could carry no sail; 

Just had to float, with storms own ways; 

It lasted for twenty-three nights and days. 

During this time, saw no sun, moon or stars; 

And I often thought we were bound to the planet. Mars. 

38 



The waves were at least four-hundred feet high, 

Sometimes they looked as if they reached the sky. 

The clouds were wildly romping the sea. 

And waves splashing, too fearful to see. 

Finally we got to the placid. Pacific Ocean, 

To Rangoon; to see Heathen commotion, 

Where I first grasped the hand of a Buddhist, 

And found him to be a genuine philosophist. 

And through him 1 received my greatest surprise. 

And 'earned that Heathen were all very wise. 

From Rangoon we sailed over to Maulmien, 

Where elephants work, to handle logs are trained. 

Took a load of Teak timbers over to Bombay, 

Where various heathen are in tropic array. 

Met with ancient Persian fire worshipers. 

Who were wise, but not much gossipers. 

Met with sober Mohammedans as well. 

Neither of the ancient cults teach a hell. 

I was always met by friendship on every hand. 

With bright eyes and smiles that were bland. 

Wherever 1 met them, abroad or at home. 

In all lands of the Orient, wherever I roam, 

I found them honest and sober everywhere. 

More so than civilized christians usually are. 

Common sense and friendship are their rules. 

They discriminate wisely between wise men and fools. 

Waste no effort on trying to save souls. 

Their idea bf religion is cast in better molds. 

If you wish their respect, let their creed alone. 

And try to improve upon that of your own. 

If you want something to cpen your eyes. 

Study their philosophy — you'll be surprised. 

You may often meet with some faint illusion. 

Be not deceived if you find it a delusion. 

They are not all correct, so you will find. 

But observe nature's realities in mind. 

So do not soar way beyond your reach. 

Nor wade too far upon a sandy beach. 

Be virtuous and follow nature's plan. 

If you aim to develop to a perfect man. 

All true moral lectures are sound. 

And with gems of thought may abound. 

But if you do wrong from day to day. 

Then it does not matter what you say. 

And if your morals are wrongly tread. 

It's better to let the lectures go unsaid. 

Over deep divinity I have often pored. 

And Universal Cosmos I have explored. 

Recorded dextrous articles with ease, 

Created thoughts that seemed to please. 

Still at times there's nothing to be known 

39 



But the thoughts that are just our own. 

And there aie some perplexities of doubt, 

So no peace of mind comes clearly out. 

And some things that I thought I knew, 

Seemed to be unm,eaning, or untrue; 

And hopes at times seemed to die away. 

Then brighten up again some other day. 

Thinking the truth I will eventually find. 

To instruct and develop in my mind. 

Thus patiently 1 would try to have it applied. 

Hoping some other things would be a guide 

Towards some truths as yet not revealed. 

Which to me so far 1 found to be sealed. 

But there are no insurmountable tasks. 

So I always thought, enjoy it while it lasts. 

Don't imagine that I am unable to tell. 

For I observe and compare things well. 

With contentment and care it's cherished 

With an undercurrent not to let it perish. 

1 avoid all evils and alcoholic reels. 

Keep perfectly sober and stand on my heels. 

There is good and bad in every thing. 

But discriminate, and content will bring 

A lot of kindness, hope and cheer. 

If you always do right and banish fear. 

At times in all eyes tears are apt to start, 

And cause, perhaps, an aching heart; 

Perhaps it's best that such is the case, 

If progress will land them in the right place; 

Because no man's nature is wholly bad. 

Remember it's never to late to mend, my lad. 

From Bombay we made an eighty day race 

Back to Liverpool's shipping place; 

Next over to the docks of Birkenhead; 

Then to Capetown our next trip led; 

Thence to Zanzibar and Bombay's bundon 

Next passed St. Helena to foggy London, 

Then back again to Bombay town, 

From there to spicy island of Ceylon, 

Around to West India isle of St. Thomas, 

With orders to go to New York, at last. 

Then I quit my seafaring roam; 

Made a break for my old Quincy home. 

I moved along with patience and grace. 

And looked everyone square in the face. 

Always at work as the time went past. 

First as servant, and master at last. 

I tackled trouble when it came my way. 

Met each problem cheerfully every day. 

If fate went against me, I met it then, 

For such is the road of life to most men. 

40 



The harder you fall, the higher you bounce. 
So the sooner you're up the more it counts. 
When my life was sprightly, agrowing. 
The rich red blood was freely flowing. 
Learn not to be a sharper or a fool. 
And apply to all true friends the Golden Rule: 
Do unto them as you wish they'd do to you. 
Remember that's the bsst way to do. 

IDIOSYNCRACY 

As we pass through life we move asunder. 

And as years pass by we marvel and wonder 

Why, so oft, we do gather false impressions 

That we're apt to think virtue is a transgression. 

At times life gets as dull as if we were asleep. 

And our life seems droll as times creep; 

As we hug falsities closer, as time goes by, 

Thus we rise and fall, live and die. 

Not understanding how trifles change us. 

Then at times most of our friends estrange us. 

Through some careless sentence or fancied slight, 

That worries each, so our friendship blight. 

Thus causing many hearts near to breaking, 

By passing many hours of lonely aching 

For the lack of true sympathy, every day. 

Until many noble friends die and pass away. 

We know that when we pass to four score 

That courage for life here is nearly o'er. 

For then we realize the fleeting days. 

With their achievements and their praise. 

Yet sweet is knowledge of our thrills 

Of compassionate health and ills. 

Of earthly blessings health is not the least. 

With intelligence it makes life a feast. 

We hold these truths to be self-evident. 

As the bravest utterances ever .sent. 

Since man stood upright and saw the end. 

Was to stand by truth and it defend. 

As his duty to claim its highest presage 

And leave a good name as his heritage. 

THE PRESENT AND FUTURE 

The glory of the Present is to make the Future free. 
Because the Past is too much looking back for me; 
But it's be contented and the Present to grasp, 
And give up all ancient thoughts of the Past, 
And its opportunities and muscial chimes. 
With its useless yearning for good old times. 
Today is the time when Present is always ours. 
And it's the time to hustle like bees among flowers. 
The Future is not here. Past is like a dream; 

41 



So work today, for it's a surer scheme. 
For Past is beneath the sod, like a fleeting hour. 
Yesterday's ice is melted, and it's milk is sour. 
The Past has gone over the face of the clocks: 
So Today is the vital time to gather up rocks. 
To gather your wheat when ripe is always best; 
When each day's toil is over, take a rest. 
The Present is the time to do good deeds. 
For then you can comprehend it's needs. 
The dreams of our childhood's days are past, 
And we know now we must give it up at last. 

THE WORLD'S ALL RIGHT 

Life's a compound of gains and losses, 

Of light joys, and some heavy crosses. 

This World contains honey, as well as gall: 

Still, this is a very good World after all. 

The World, to me, is an inspiring book. 

Can read it in the running brook. 

In the whispers of the leaves in the trees; 

As well as fragrance of evening breeze. 

And of the flowers below, and air above; 

As Nature's volume of the earthly love. 

So give to the World the best you've got. 

Then the best will come to be your lot. 

And now, in the waning time of life 

I shall miss the once cheerful wife. 

And as Nature lengthens out my days, 

I'll seek more light from wisdom's ways: 

From my joy's records, and my grief's 

And bind them up in memory's briefs. 

Life and me have been quite long together; 

Through pleasant, and through stormy weather. 

And yet, I know not just what thou art. 

But 1 know that some day we must part. 

The wise and the dull; the low and the high. 

Will return to earth, and together will lie. 

THE LUST OF LIFE 

If we have too much lust of living. 
And too little thanks, or charity giving. 
As to let workers of the garden of life 
Cultivate perfect peace, not sorrow or strife; 
Make a cheerful place of this world of ours. 
So that all can pass life in peaceful hours. 
Therefore let us try to cheerfully go 
Through life's checkered paths of woe. 
Cultivate friendship: that b'essed power; 
May it ever blossom as a fragrant flower. 
Beautiful vision; how bright you repose; 
As visions of peace let it calmly compose. 

42 



At times we have sunshine and shady dale. 

And then the thunderstorm over hill and vale. 

Which proclaims changes in natures creation, 

Which teaches us Evolution's relation. 

The noble woodland trees that stand together; 

They gently speak to one another in windy weather. 

And from the seed which gave them birth, 

As they take nourishment from the earth. 

All naturally stand together as friends. 

To guide them through the seasons end. 

With a chain of love, the earth to span, 

For the universal brotherhood of man. 

Created by nature's laws from earth's foundation. 

And which should be recognized by every nation: 

We should make that our rule without failing. 

And then the human race would not be ailing. 

UNERRING RULES 

Common sense is wisdom, if you follow these rules, 
Learned outside of college, not by unobserving fools. 
Avoid an evil temper; and all kinds of alcoholic drinks, 
For they contain fusil oil, and twist what you think. 
Don't rush along too rapid, or you're not apt much to see; 
Push no stubborn human, he's apt to strike at thee. 
Expend no argument with a person devoid of taste; 
If you do, you'll find your time and words are waste. 
Let no ill-luck discourage — good things sometimes drop. 
But gas and empty bubbles always float on top. 
Always be philosophical; let nothing give you surprise; 
The wise man observes things until he dies. 
Ther're many simple pleasures in natural things, 
But a grouchy disposition — doctor bills it brings. 
To gain respect of others, you must cultivate your own; 
Don't search for flowers if you're out on a sandy zone. 
Don't waste your time to guide your little soul; 
It's capable of doing that itself, as life will unroll. 
For when we die, we will all die just the same; 
And our bodies and souls will end the entire game. 
For all nature conforms to unchanging laws. 
And it provides for no special celestial cause. 
Try to cast your lines in pleasant places. 
That's more than many do, of unruly races. 

THE MAN IN WASHINGTON 

There is a man in Washington 

That does things, nice and brown. 

He is the man the people have sent 

To serve eight years as President. 

He gives good service in good style; 

When he writes, it's all worth while. 

In fact he has proved to be a wise man 

43 



Who'll bravely help old Uncle Sam 

To see that we have a purpose here. 

And do it, in spite of opposition near. 

By meeting foes to their own face. 

Saying he'll never give up the race. 

He toils, and he uses his brain. 

And sees that his labor isn't in vain. 

He will prove to the Kings and Princess, 

That he'll give a plan that convinces. 

That this war must end this season; 

Or if not, we'll find out the reason. 

And make 'em cry; "We've had enough 

Of this Yankee fighting stuff." 

Like a flash of lightning's wave. 

Order for to a finish, he gave. 

To carry the Banner, let it not fade. 

And compel the enemy's arm to be laid. 

To make this world a bit more bright. 

And see Hymanity is being treated right. 

He stopped Big-Biz: he stopped their jaw, 

By declaring it must obey the law. 

When he heard others were chewing. 

He told them what they were a-brewing; 

Said "keep cool, don't get so excited. 

All them wrongs will soon be righted ". 

There's many items that he knew. 

And how to bring them into view. 

He has been a man, mild and wise. 

Strong in counsel and to advise; 

Ponders well, and knows what's right; 

Goes onward then, with all his might; 

Said, "let's be up and be a doing. 

By achieving and pursuing". 

He never seems to be afraid; 

Does what's needed, with no parade; 

Says no more'n what's to be said. 

And then he calmly pushes ahead. 

On him, humanity can surely depend. 

As he is its true and steadfast friend. 

And he will do his best to increase 

The hope of "League-to-enforce- Peace". 

NATURE'S GOD 

Yes, Nature's God, Thou art mine, 
^'ou have truth for your divine. 
And your laws surely are a wealth 
That find contentment and health. 
Even so as the growing grass 
Up out of the soil the life saps pass; 
Out of earth all vegetation grows. 
From it comes the Lily and the Rose, 

44 



Toiling upward in natural ascent 

To its complete accomplishment. 

Thus upon earth's everlasting breast 

All vegetation grows and rests. 

With tenderness in all past ages. 

Evolving from lowest to highest stages. 

As if it was all a passing of a dream. 

Nature awakens to find all supreme. 

So joyously, nature, she reveals 

All her secrets, she does not conceal. 

As she come from the dark loam 

In which she sleeps as a home. 

And as time makes its annual round 

She repeats her labor under ground 

Nature works with patient endeavor 

While Time goes around forever. 

Her laws that govern us are few, 

And all are very simple, too. 

Do not try to cheat natural laws. 

For you will lose in every cause. 

UNIVERSAL LIFE 

Life must have its fragrant bloom. 

And also, now and then have some gloom; 

Every heart must know its own woe. 

As cares come to every one you know; 

Misfortune is a part of every human life. 

Tinctured with some pain or strife. 

And as we are beings of an infinite birth. 

We must meet the changed rules of earth. 

As growth is the universal law of all life, 

That's why our forms are faults of rife. 

But let's suppose that all ills should depart. 

Then in such a case would every heart 

Be filled with contentment and ease? 

Or would there be many not pleased? 

Or would it be like a new golden age. 

With bright pictures on every page? 

Or would all of our sorrows forgotten bw;? 

And every one in the world dance with glee? 

Would all men contentment realize 

If that which is, were all otherwise? 

Man is a being prone always to find 

Fault with things in his own mind. 

And would not his wishing be ajar 

For many things to be better far? 

Contentment, true is using right 

The means we all have in sight. 

And would not modern man be weary. 

Life for every one be a different theory. 



45 



And every blessed one would shirk 
The truth "Evolution is at work". 
When that time is here for to stay 
We'll be glad it happened in that way. 

I WANT TO BE A FARMER 

There came a day when 1 had planned 
To save some money and buy some land. 
Build a house and barn, buy some stock. 
Raise beef, sheep, hogs, and a poultry flock; 
Plow and raise crops of c'over and corn. 
And many other things, as fruits and acorn. 
I found some of the best land to be found 
In the neighborhood for fifty miles around. 
1 bought it, and never counted the cost. 
But recollected the years I'd already lost. 
And to think of the spiiit of our design. 
Of mutual thoughts that were so fine. 
Love brings . contentment to our lot. 
Finds something sweet in a lonesome spot. 
So even if at first a person may feel sad. 
There come.s a time when they are glad; 
Glad that we have left the noisy town, 
Where business goes up and down; 
Where we fret and meet with strife; 
That's the routine of most city life. 
I slowly prospered and made headway. 
And we surely will be rich some day. 
As the sun sweeps across our plain, 
Giving us chemical rays and rain. 
And beautiful and healthy things. 
We hear the sweet songs the birds sing. 
All that is so fine, is not too late. 
Although in town this w^as desolate. 
As time goes by, life's ways are rare. 
We will continue to progress with care. 
It is a splendid vision that we may imply. 
As the future course of our prosperity. 

SIDE WITH TRUTH 

To side with the truth is a noble design. 

To side with justice is faith divine. 

It is the brave man that always chooses. 

Whilst the coward always stays until he loses 

As the ones they antagonize begin to hurl 

Them off to one side of the world. 

The multitude lost faith in them 

When they failed the current to stem. 

"Do not wait until they are repudiated 

By the highest authority ", can be stated 

In such a manner that's most emphatic, 

46 



Announcing their views so erratic, 

As righteousness is prosperous and just. 

And the abject coward goes to the dust. 

So have the courage of your conviction, if right. 

Don't wait until the multitude sees the light. 

Give yourself the task to lead the way. 

Then serenely you're apt to win the day. 

Thus you will be one that chooses — 

Not one of the kind that waits and loses. 

YOUR COMING INTO THE WORLD 

Your coming into the world was like a sun-ray from the sky. 

And you brought life with you without ever knowing why. 

It was a wonderful world you entered, but you came unawares 

Not knowing a single thing about the future joys or cares; 

But you v/ere received here by people gentle and kind, 

And you had to grow months before you formed a mind. 

But when you grew older you could read in every line 

That the symbols of life were very splendid and fine. 

In the years of youth 'twas a joyous place for a bright boy. 

With many adventures filled to overflowing with joy. 

As time wanders along, your eyes aren't opened yet, 

To the sins of the world and many days of regret; 

Because you have not experienced its grief or woe. 

You've only had thoughts gentle down here below. 

When a man, you weave thoughts which in your mind grev/ 

Through inspirations, greater than your former view; 

And as they came, they developed a thrill as your own, 

To lead you deftly onward to a new vista unknown. 

Your enthusiasm knew no bound to your intellect. 

As you were sure your plan had no defect. 

You'll try to proceed on your plans as you should. 

For you believe everything is arranged for good. 

You'd rather lose than win, if j'ou have to cheat; 

Sooner than take such a prize, you'U take defeat. 

You worked like an auto's gasoline machines. 

To try to perfect your object with all means; 

Had hopes that soon you'd have lots of cash; 

Alas! all your hopes and money meet a crash. 

Thus, all your plans, to bring you brilliant fame, 

By reverses, your hopes were flashed to a flame. 

And now that you've lived more than fifty years. 

Have labored all the time, with hopes and fears. 

And have failed, most of your wishes to gain; 

Still, most of your labor has not been in vain, 

As your experience taught you, that here below. 

Bliss, unalloyed, is fulfillment we can't know. 

You say, I've had more than my share of strife; 

So much so, I am getting weary of life. 

But 1 am thinking of keeping on, just the same. 

And play my best to try and win the game. 

47 



In other days — just between us two. 
It might have been the right thing to do. 
And to do aU of this, and do it right, 
We should have gotten all that's in sight. 

I JUST WROTE IT 

The idea came to me, and I just wrote it. 

With the intention that others would quote it. 

As the inspiration would cause them to read it: 

I hope they'll not be too busy to heed it. 

But thinking it ought to create a sensation; - 

That it surely will be repeated all over creation; 

Yet, 1 know that my hope may be mistaken. 

As, often, the most important ideas are shaken. 

Perhaps it may be right, but things might be rougher. 

So you may not know what it is to have to suffer; 

But if you watch how it goes in other places, 

Then you might comprehend how it traces; 

And compare my lot with those who go 

The other way; then perhaps you will know. 

Old memories return with past desires. 

With joyful thoughts of youthful fires. 

And with whispers of the glorious times. 

Bring raptures of old, as if in chimes; 

And the recollections of the poems we sung ' 

In these delightful days, when we were young. 

That which we have, we rarely seem to prize. 

Why is it? Perhaps it is, we do not realize. 

Or, it's some boon, which we have been denied. 

And now, seen so near, we grow dissatisfied. 

It might be, it would have brought content. 

If it had been possible it had been earlier sent. 

And thus my theme will show no hate. 

But see installed. Nature, in its true estate. 

Without any teachings to fool the world. 

But logically, with the intent unfurled; 

Like unto the Solar strength, and its light. 

To let you learn of Truth's own might. 

Dame fortune, sometimes as fickle as a gypsie. 

And often blind, and sometimes she is tipsy; 

At times she will be trustworthy to you. 

And at other times, be a disappointment, too. 

As chance will have it — shove you on the sand. 

Then again surprise you, so you'll not understand 

That at times you'll think you can depend 

Upon her, absolutely, as a friend. 

Thus my thoughts reverted, as musing today, 

About an occurance just in the way; 

In which I trusted some of her joy to borrow. 

But, to my surprise, found nothing but sorrow. 

So now, I'll bring to an end this long verse, 

.And say that I referred to the Chamber of Commerce. 

48 



LIVE TO NINETY-ONE 

What does it mean, to live to Ninety-one, 

The long-looked-for, the end that begun 

The journey through this world's life; 

In days long ago, with its daily strife, 

Over a path, rough, and with shade and light; 

But many peaceful vales that were bright; 

Many times, meet alternate smiles and tears; 

Times to read, to watch, to think, without fears. 

Remember joys of childhood's sunny hours. 

And pleasures of life among the flowers. 

At the time when we reached sweet sixteen. 

The world seemed to be the happiest ever seen. 

We thought that in age it would be the same 

As it was at forty-one, when reaching for fame. 

But when we were best, and had suffered defeat. 

We met it courageously, with a smile, so sweet, 

With no unfriendly act, but calculating. 

To prove we were a man of good relating. 

So life is a mixture of gladness and sadness. 

And a blending of goodness and badness; 

And it is also a mixture of laughter and tears. 

That follow you down the lane of the years. 

WHEN THERE'S COMPANY TO DINNER 

As the company sat at a delightful spread. 

Of chicken, fruit, salads, butter and bread; 

Ma, to Johnny then said, you'll have to wait. 

That made him feel grouchy with hate. 

And he went out to sulk in the shed. 

Where he told it to his brother, Fred; 

Who said, let's not worry, but take a rest. 

For I really believe second table is best. 

You'll see, father'll serve the company right. 

And we'd have to sit and wait to get a bite; 

We'd not get served until the last, 

Your mouth would water 'til your plate is passed: 

Besides, they'd only give us portions small. 

Because we're little, we won't eat it all. 

And we'd have to watch, and be polite; 

If company's looking, we must take a small bite. 

And they'd keep talking after eating, and stay 

Sitting there, as if they can't get away. 

There's some things we like, some we don't; 

Somethings we like to do, some we won't. 

But if we wait 'til company gets through. 

Everything that's left is for me and you. 

Then we can take what we want to eat. 

Help ourselves as we like, and then repeat. 

Now don't you see, Johnny, that I understand. 

That the second table, it is grand. 

49 



LIFE IS LIFE 

Around the cradle of childhood over there. 
We imagine we see heaven's portal, clear and fair. 
That the infant figure lying in that little bed, 
Has a God-sent crown placed upon its head. 
And with perfect limbs, and bright eyes to see. 
To gaze upon this world's dreams so free; 
And brighten into one of an immortal power. 
To glisten like the morning dew upon a flower: 
That its beautiful grace will not decay. 
But 'ike the morning star — will shine alway. 
In a few months that child will begin to grow. 
And then, in time, will come colic and woe. 
Then you'll walk the floor with the darling. 
While it's little stomach is a quarrelling. 
And when in spasms the child is a quaking. 
Because its little angel stomach is aching. 
Cease, my darling, your awful screaming, 
And go to sleep and begin dreaming; 
Trust to Nature, and it will soon cure you. 
And I will not give any dope to y-o-u. 
That'll end your thoughts of angel's hours 
That you had, of fairy dreams or flowers; 
With your hopes and dreams at stall. 
Remind you: — life is life; that's all. 

IN THE DAYS OF OLD 

In the days of old, when all was cold. 

Many squirmed because they were told. 

That with hope and faith enwrapped in gloom, 

The realms of mind went glimmering soon. 

And despairing mortals sought the Lord, 

Through the gloomy shades of our discord: 

As through darkness they appeared so cold. 

With no hope of a glowing signal to behold. 

The world seemed hushed, in silence dearth. 

As the heavens were waiting on the earth. 

It was ordained to bring new life to man, 

Like hosts of angels, coming in a caravan. 

With wings expanded, and seraphic song. 

To sing Glory Hallelujah all day long. 

Thus to revive and lift Hope, Faith and Love, 

And march over a path, descending from above; 

As the Holy Spirit would bend the pride of earth. 

And redeem the erring souls with a new birth. 

TRUE DIGNITY 

The man that knows the heart within his breast. 
But takes no special honor to parade the fact. 
But just makes it his guide for every act. 
When in honest duties he goes in quest; 

50 



Is one of Nature's true laborers of the best. 
The world may hold him up in scorn and shame; 
And the church may also load him with blame: 
By clanging about his little faults, with zest; 
And claiming that the church's policy is best. 
But so long as he holds up his honest light. 
And acts the honorable part with open eyes. 
With faithful, righteous zeal, that never dies. 
It matters naught what others may say. 
As it's immaterial, what they preach or pray. 
If his conscience is led by what is right; 
Although he have to toil at labor every day. 
He knows that his time is never thrown away. 
Untarnished then, his fond affections rest. 
Where other heads are rent by feverish pain. 
When it ought to soothe their burning brain. 
He will take the hand, with friendship blest. 
Thus encircling calmly from any distress. 
Have thoughts of his own, don't give up for any, 
To be right all alo'ne, than in wrong of many; 
Even if this is not society's just decree, 
Care not, for what is all the vain world to thee. 
He'd rather live with his own humble kin. 
Than through the woild's wickedness, win. 
Although he'll never do things that he should'dt. 
There's nothing good, that he wouldn't. 
And by a perfect knowledge of nature's plan. 
He will be an honest, perfect gentleman. 
Stand by his honest convictions; live so 
That his true dignity continues to glow. 

THE SILVER LINING 

A cloud may have a silver lining. 

As you see it in the distance shining. 

But if your wings are not in training. 

There is no use for you to be straining. 

Your eyes, your neck, your collar bone, 

For the lining is not worth a groan. 

If you're an optimist, pay no attention. 

For the silver is not worth the mention. 

But watch it if you wish, in despair. 

And you will soon see it melt in air. 

Then you will get a double share. 

That it's a fine, fantistic snare. 

So that you will come to the conclusion 

That it is but a grand delusion; 

Of which, there's many on this earth, 

Created by imagination's birth. 

THE CLOCK 

When this world was created 
Some millions of years ago, 
51 



The days and nights were rated 
To last twelve hours or so. 
And from that day to this. 
The day and night came in 
Such a time as not to miss 
The time of day you are in. 
But what I can't understand, 
And wish some one to explain 
The way our clocks are planned; 
So they torture our poor brain. 
"Why don't we have 13 o'clock. 
And also — half past 21". 
So we'd know when to pull our sock. 
And also, just when the day is done. 
Have it strike at eighteen. 
For the supper time to be eating; 
Likewise strike the hour of twenty-four, 
At the time for us to begin to snore. 
But of a'l the silliest of schemes, 
I think "pushing the clock ahead" 
Is the most awkward of dreams 
Of any I 'have ever yet read. 
Nature is exact, in it's time astronomical; 
Many human ways are silly and funny. 
But "moving the clock" is so comical. 
If we think the day gets more sunny. 

UNFULFILLED HOPES 

Unfulfilled Hopes in this world, are legion. 
And the amount of fulfilled hopes are few. 
There may be some truth of a region 
Where the most of life's hopes come true: 
But no living person has yet found it. 
Perhaps it's life is beset by cares; 
That it is hard to know — confound it. 
As we are searching for it everywhere. 
We find that the brightest hopes vanished, 
And our ambitions and aims fall to dust. 
Then if something that is not famished 
Shows how faith may still seem just. 
Still I know in spite of all its abuse. 
If you have only good hopes to win. 
Perhaps some of them may be of use. 
To guide you right, from evil or sin. 
We glide through life's fleeting race. 
That reveals to us, things passed away, 
And at times we cast a glance in space. 
From which we may hope and pray. 
Still, let's remember the ties that bind. 
That made them joyous in our mind. 

52 



TO A NEWSPAPER SCRIBE 

I want to ask you a question, so don't feel sore. 
Please answer correctly, don't think me a bore. 
What's the matter, and what have 1 done 
That your always, of me, trying to make fun? 
And, are you as perfect as you can be? 
Do you see yourself, as others do see; 
Who hear you Usping — "thanks deary"; 
Silly enough to make us all weary. 
You say its so hard, for a soul like yours. 
To have to mingle in herds, none endures. 
Now won't you please stop, if you can. 
So that we may think you a gentleman? 
But if your conscience weighs a ton, 
You'd better just keep up ycnir fun. 
And we may some day meet, by chance, 
I'll note the si?e of your hat, and pants. 
And I'll certainly search with pains. 
Which one of them covers your brains. 
By the aid of a rubber blacksnake 
Which, with me, 1 am going to take; 
Unless you beg pardon for what you've done 
In your paper — in printing the fun. 

UPON THE OCEAN WAVE 

It's a life upon the ocean waves for me, 

It's joyous to live on the deep blue sea. 

It's hilarious at the wheel to take a stand. 

And see our crafty skip out of sight of land. 

As the sun rises up, or as it goes down. 

And we meet it either way without a frown. 

It was a clear night, and the wind blew strong. 

As swiftly, over the waves, the ship went along; 

With foaming sea, the bow the waves did spread. 

Whilst she buried the dipping lee-cathead. 

As the robes of the topsails is three; 

With spanker and gibs, she sails so free. 

Landlubbers may brag of duds and style 

Of their cut-away-coats — if it's worth while: 

But give me the dungaree trousers. 

Boots, oil coat, and Sou'-westsousers: 

Let me have a black cravat, to flirt 

With my old blue flannel shirt: 

And I'll be the happiest chap you can see. 

And spend a healthy life for me. 

THE WAYWARD SON 

It's strange to think there once was a time. 
That we never thought you'd do a crime. 
Then we never once would have suspected. 
That there could be such a change deflected, 

53 



As to swing to such an outrage; 

And for it to commence at your age; 

That you should develop so furious;' 

It does Seem to us as quite curious. 

It makes a man lose temper 'till it roils, 

To see that all his pains have recoils. 

After we had expected joys to borrow. 

But have found nothing but deep sorrow. 

And now we must spend a time repining; 

Unable to find any expected silver lining. 

To any of the hopes we've been searching. 

For many weary days of learching. 

Without any hopes, or any gladness; 

Because we can only find sadness. 

We have always had hopes you had pride 

In striving to make all of us satisfied; 

That we could depend that you'd be nice, 

And accept and follow our good advice. 

But when I observe how you treat me, 

I do not think you really did see 

That you ignored our counsels fair; 

But, instead, you give us but despair. 

We have tried to teach you, so correct. 

But it has not done so, as far as we can detect. 

The son said — "Father, I'm going to leave home. 

Out in the wide world for to roam; 

And try my best to be an upright man; 

I '11 promise Ma and You, I'll fulfill the plan" 

Shortly, word came that he was dead; 

That brought sorrow to all, with a dread 

That perhaps he suicided, us to please. 

But that horror was soon put at ease. 

When it was learned "heart-failure," the cause. 

That it was sudden, by some natural laws. 

That eased all our former fears. 

But it caused the shedding of bitter tears; 

Brouglit anguish; but still it satisfied. 

To know the real cause from which he died. 

LIFE'S BEST JOYS 

Since life's best joys consist of health and peace. 

As few can save, or serve, still all can please: 

So let the ungentle minds learn from hence. 

That small unkindness is also an offense. 

Don't get angry and rave, but try to be just, 

Instead of making an everlasting fuss. 

It's better to keep your temper, and grow fat, 

And don't be complaining about this or that. 

Therefore keep cool, and just wait. 

And you'll learn nature's pleasures are great. 

As you ought to know, we need its changes, 

54 



So as to keep up the evoluntionary ranges. 
So that each natural harmony may grow 
Better, with the universal, in which we sow. 
And you will find this is all good advice. 
That you are getting, without any price. 

SO THE POETS SAY 

Hope is a beautiful fever, with which a host 
Of people are supplied: — it springs in quantities 
In the human mind: — it's the cheapest thing in most 
All of the earth: — and most unprofitable qualities. 
But now-and-then we wish to forsake cares. 
And write something, in which no one shares. 
As the brain grows dull; as the blood grows cold; 
For when senility sets, the blood loses fire; 
From the lack of energy, when the heart is old; 
Causing the lack of energy of the desire. 
So these lines may not touch the higher strings 
You may reach in the poems of master bards. 
If sung, they may not have the note that rings 
In some popular songs that reap rich rewards. 

SUMMER CLOUDS 

Have you ever observed the clouds. 
As they skirmish along in crowds; 
Forming images with such a charm, 
Shifting before you can see the form. 
At times they are a beautiful sight. 
In an ever-changing shade and light. 
Some are magnificient sights; 
Others are ridiculous frights. 

THE PRODIGAL SON 

When our Son was living with us upon the farm 
He was growing fine, and never gave us any alarm: 
For Ma and I thought he was so very bright; 
And in working around at chores he took delight. 
He would ask us more questions, some so queer. 
And he seemed to ask more and more every year. 
Ma taught him how to read and to spell, 
And he was delighted, and learned so well. 
That Ma said, we must send him to town, 
To study in the school of Professor Brown. 
For he would get a great deal of advance. 
And at school he'll have a much better chance. 
As he was our only child, we let him go. 
Because we were so proud of him, you know. 
We sent him the fall and winter through. 
We were so lonesome, we didn't know what to do. 
At graduation time he came home gratified. 
But next day, said he was not satisfied; 

55 



And would go back to town once more. 

He'd been offered a job at the village store. 

We said: — you won't leave us. 1 will, said he; 

Drudging on the farm is no place for me. 

No matter what Ma or I could do or say; 

"To town I'm going; and going to stay." 

Go, he did; Ma clinging to him at the gate; 

I was appealing; but it all had no weight. 

From that day, our farm was a dreary place; 

Ma worried so, it caused wrinkles in her face. 

I was feeling as if my mind was turned about. 

But my conscience would not let it come out. 

Sometimes he'd write and ask how we got along. 

And I wrote, Ma was feeble and I was not strong. 

Then he quit writing, we never got a word — 

Only from neighbors, that went to town and heard. 

Neighbors went to store; of him they'd inquire 

If he sold for less, and buy their produce higher. 

The boss told him he liked the way he worked. 

So he gave him more salary as his clerk. 

In a few months, his friends did often say, 

"If he likes you, you ought to get more pay; 

For he owes all his prosperous trade to you; 

If you'd quit, what could he really do." 

Finally, our son's head began to swell. 

On account of what friends to him did tell; 

He began to think if he gave up his job, 

The boss would worry and then would sob. 

Then he told him he wanted another raise 

And didn't care for complimentary praise. 

"If you don't come across, and double every bit, 

I notify you that 1 am going to quit." 

"I'm glad to have you go,; to me it's no loss," 

Was the answer he got from the boss. 

"In former days you did do tolerably well. 

But since your head has begun to swell. 

You've made me and my patrons very tired. 

Until I've planned to have you fired." 

Then our son tramped all around the town. 

Hunting a job, and he only got turned down. 

One night, a knock came upon our door; 

So I ask, whose there? 1 ask once more. 

"It's me, your fool son. cor^je to shake your hand. 

Talk to you, try to make you understand 

How dear to me is this old home, that we 

Will spend our lives together, — Ma, You and Me." 

THE OLD MAN'S GARDEN 

I pass a garden, most every day; 
An old man tends it quite patiently; 
His flower tribes are very gay, 

56 



But they disonantly disagree. 

His purple dahlias and his red rose 

Together shriek discordant cries: 

I wonder if the old man knows 

His flowers do not harmonize. 

His magenta phlox, and scarlet bean. 

With blue larkspur, crowded to a wall, 

With rank-growing sunflowers, lean; 

The old man, jumbling, tends to all. 

But over his porch, there nicely grows 

As beautiful wreaths of a banksia rose. 

Yet — the inner side of every cloud 

Surely has its silver lining; 

So if you turn the cloud inside out. 

Then you w'll see it shining. 

So, with the birds around there, 

With the colors that they wear. 

As they go alloring here and there, 

They aid to make his garden fair. 

WISE PROVERBS 

Poverty in youth is capital — a creative force; 
And if guided wisely in a formative course, 
It usually creates economy — a splendid thing. 
And, if practiced frugally it will surely bring 
True and lasting comfort to the advancing years. 
Instead of as extragavant folks, who shed tears. 
Ambition grows sluggish, with a spendthirft, 
And generally, in old age, worries as a makeshift. 
Hardship and want, it generally teaches 
Better sermons, than do most preachers. 
Learn to pack your chest with courage. 
Then you'll not have to pay any demurrage. 
Keep your eyes on your task, whatever it be. 
And remember the world wants the best ability. 
It's important to know you cannot achieve 
Any proportion more than you can believe. 
And what the mind can plan, the will can produce. 
Sobriety and common sense are of the best of use. 
There's no true philosophy for to worry or moan. 
If a rich man rides, while a poor man walks, alone. 
The rich man rakes in money, piles it in a heap. 
Trembles lest it totter, so loses lots of sleep. 
It's not what you say, nor what you may pretend, 
But what you practice, that keeps good to the end. 
Don't fret about a mansion on high, over there. 
But make this life, here on earth, bright and fair. 

HUMAN SYMPATHY 

There's time when human sympathy is a balm, to assuage. 
That can make an indelible impression upon the mind's page. 

57 



And be crystallized into a memory as a solace, so dear; 

To prove loyalty towards its influence, reigns with us here. 

That with all upright humans, it is most always to be found, 

And for humanities' sake, on earth, that it is sound. 

Thus it spurs the lonely, sorrowing heart to rejoice; 

For nature, itself, gives promise by its cheery voice. 

As positive as, that behind every cloud there's a light; 

And so, in the righteous mind, sympathy will be bright. 

At times, it seems many humans are harsh and cold: 

Still, if sympathy is even in small doses to be doled. 

It will be natural for it to grow, and to gain. 

So that humanity will be all the better, in the main. 

As the tree brings blossoms in the spring, and fruit in the fall. 

Still it happens, by chance, there's no fruit at all. 

Yet nature and soil will nourish all its roots. 

So as to cause it in summer, to form new shoots. 

FACED BACKWARDS 

All persons that are faced backward, see 

Wisdom only in the teachings of ancient past; 

And with Evolution they cannot ever agree; 

Because they were taught to hold fast 

To all the teachings of sages of olden times, 

That give them their prejudices so strong 

With ideas that they were the only true shrines; 

And the Evolution was altogether in the wrong. 

Not knowing how it sheds light upon the dark; 

And true happiness, instead of dismal gloom. 

They do not understand Nature's spark. 

And how Nature perfects the fragrant bloom; 

Nor how shadows, cast by cloud and sun. 

As they move over the plats of grass; 

And know not how the laws of nature run. 

To make the changes, as generations pass. 

Of ruling upon earth, and the stars above, 

All through, the 'aws of nature are given. 

To all creation, with the attributation of love. 

And by it, we should make earth a heaven. 

Thus Nature's Volume, if it's read aright, 

Attunes our life's soul to a mintrelsy. 

Tinging life's clouds with cheery light. 

And wou'd fill al the world with its poetry. 

Worry not about a home over there. 

In heaven, as taught by many religious creeds; 

But make your life upon this earth so fair. 

That your soul will attend to its own needs. 

Give me the man who says what he thinks. 

The kind whose word's as good as gold. 

From whom, the Truth never shrinks. 

Who cannot ever be bought or sold. 

Such a man, in the ream of a book, will find 

58 



Treasures surpassing the mines of richest ore. 
Studying Evolution will so improve his mind, 
And open truths of Nature he knew not before. 
Once, to every one, comes, the moment to decide, 
In the strife of truth with false, good or evil side; 
Some great cause, offering a bloom, or blight. 
The choice goes on twixt darkness or the light. 

GOD'S OWN IMAGE 

Humans have different speech, in various climes. 
Different costumes of raiment, at various times; 
Various thoughts, in many varieties of heads; 
Different zones of climate have various beds; 
Each nation as a rule, has many kinds of laws; 
And different laws have more or less flaws: 
Different hymns reveal all kinds of stories. 
Some full of remorse, some full of glories. 
There's many a rest along the road of life. 
And many querulous ones to cause strife. 
Usually there's a quality in the average mind. 
That searches, only sensuous pleasure to find. 
But when out walking, along on the street, 
Notice the various faces you meet. 
And you certainly will be apt to see 
Various expressions, of every degree. 
And observe their dress and their style; 
You'll be surprised, and undoubtedly smile; 
As many of them are ridiculous frights, 
And others, tasty, and beautiful sights. 
Observe their stature, some are small. 
Others, very lean, lanky and tall. 
Some are so lean, they hardly can toddle. 
Others, so fat and flabby, they can hardly wabble. 
And there different colors, white to black. 
All mixed up in earth's humanity stack. 
Different groups have various delusions; 
Therefore come to different conclusions. 
Now, if you have a religious faith divine. 
To be'ieve in your own God's design; 
That He really created the human race 
In His "perfect image" of body and face — 
Then the Greeks were right in their Gods, 
By having so many kinds, — by the rods; 
That's the reason of various images "of us". 
As each God created his own adventurous. 
But how can you reconcile "Your Wise One", 
And believe that his work was "well done": 
How could he have such variety of man. 
If "creating His Own Image" was his plan. 
Then, if that is true, that "He did do so", 
His plan then, must have been "Ro-co-co". 

59 



Train a twig crooked, instead of straight; 
Then your tree will have the same fate. 
But train it to grow straight and true. 
Then your tree will grow upright for you. 
But, teach your children re'igious lies, 
They'll be hypocrites, — can't be otherwise. 

DON'T BE A PESSIMIST 

If you had a job of constructing mankind, 

Do you think you would do it more sublimed; 

And do it in such manner as it really ought 

To be done, so that none could find fault. 

Believe that you have a purpose for being here 

And do it in spite of difficulties that may appear. 

And do not think too much of fame, or pelf. 

And by no means ever be afraid to trust yourself. 

When this world seems to you that its gloomy. 

Change your mind, and observe that it's roomy. 

And consider if you want to be a pessimist scoff. 

Or rather be a cheerful one, that's better off. 

Then it will occur that you're going to survive. 

And this world is fine, and you're glad to be alive. 

That you have found that everything is fit. 

And that you really don't see why you should quit. 

Of the many brave men in the world it is said 

Many rank as first class, who can hold up their head: 

And join hands with those that are in distress. 

To help to relieve the injustice and excess: 

Yes, the race of life becomes a hopeless flight. 

Unless you keep in the path leading to the right. 

For seldom does a person of vice repent, or use 

Righteous grace or to make wrong, right abuse. 

Their dire contageon usually spreads so fast, 

That when it seizes, all relief is vain at last. 

GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY 

So very softly the years have swept by. 

Yet they left with the tenderest of care, 

Far from many storms that flashed by. 

But nearer, nearer each day when all is fair. 

Past all the currents that lure to rest. 

Far from the course of envy or sorrow; 

Flowing onward gracefully and blest. 

And never willingly, trouble to borrow. 

Still growing old, gracefully and serene. 

With health and content all the years. 

And thankful for all I have seen. 

Rich with experience and a'l without fears. 

So rest weary heart, for a little while; 

There's a balm for every sorrow or grief; 

Discard the thought of any trouble to file, 

60 



When light appears, darkness is brief. 
Rich in experience, and nothing to covet. 
Rich in faith that's been in me for years: 
Growing old happily, ceasing never to forget 
The lesson I have learned without fears. 
As all through the world in my review. 
As I travelled and toiled many a day. 
And learned things that I never knew. 
Until I observed them on my way. 
Soon, Philosophy seemed a simple part. 
So easy to learn, at least to my mind: 
When comprehending Nature's art, 
That they simply gave pleasure to find. 
In growing old gracefully, they re-appear. 
And give me added grace in old age. 
So that final disolution gives no fear 
Of the day when 'ife meets that last page. 
Planted love and joy, as in life go about. 
And then success did grow and bloom. 
If you plant failure and hate, envy or doubt. 
You will reap a full harvest of gloom. 
What seed I have sown as onward I go. 
As I travelled along life's highway road. 
Are seeds that will help others to grow. 
And thus lighten humanity's load. 

A PAIR OF WHO'S WHO 

In the campus grounds, with a pompous gait 

He would stroll, pleased with life, most with self. 

Then lolling in a gorgeous study, striving to wait, 

With hope of inheriting some expected wealth. 

When he strutted as a divine sophomore. 

With a diploma to preach theology yore: 

Thinking he knew all that mortal can know; 

And that he was capable to lead here below. 

All the people throughout the land and clime 

How to live and die, by his lessons sublime. 

And, as usua' with most of the college stunts, 

They promenade around, preach and grine. 

Then take a rest for about four months. 

And they call that, his vacation time. 

But when we poor laborers weary grow. 

We merely get more work for us to do: 

As it's the very thing we need, you know. 

To keep us in practice, and willing, too. 

Our vacation — we go to picture show tonight. 

For it will be recreation, and a delight. 

Or else we stay at home, read the pages 

Of some of the master minds of ages. 

And then, our minds won't need to roam. 

For then, we can learn, and study at home 

61 



And as for diplomas, we would have no need. 

But instead, use our brains, and thus succeed. 

So we would learn from Edison, and other giants. 

Such as Newton, and other men of science. 

As well as Spencer, Darwin and Watt. 

Thus we could absorb their natural thought. 

Then with modest arrogance of an honest man, 

And if we'd learn to prove our own valuation. 

The sensible humans will admire the plan, 

And will accept your true estimation. 

THE SECRET OF GALLANTRY 

I have worked both hard and long. 
But always thought that it made me strong, 
Yet patient as my life has been. 
There's one sight that I've never seen: — 
As a dream I had when life was new: 
Alas! our dreams don't often come true. 
With more thank, and less of thought. 
Tried to seek what ancient sages sought. 
I strived to make all matters meet 
Circumstances, either sour or sweet. 
Scrutinized what passed in part. 
And to keep a cheerfulness of heart; 
Whether the summer clothed earth 
With greenness, or winter, cold mirth. 
As in all quarters of earth 1 did roam. 
And made the whole wide world my home. 
The secret of gallantry, is a natural life: 
Its I nconv niences, accept without strife; 
As its requisities are in its toleration. 
But with skepticism and consideration. 
To the side of perfect justice is my trust. 
Always side with truth, as it is just. 
I'll try to be contented unto life's end, 
When time and eternity meet and blend. 

I LOVE HIM AS A FRIEND 

Perhaps he may be seven kinds of a liar. 

Or he may be ten kinds of a fool: 

He may be a blooming high flyer. 

And may be without reason or rule; 

There may be a shadow above him 

Of ruin and woes that impend; 

1 may not respect, but still love him, — 

Because he's to me, a true friend. 

I know he has faults by the score. 

But the faults are a portion of him; 

I know his record's not as before. 

And he's far from being a seraphim. 

And though he is wild, and somewhat unruly, 

62 



He's ever ready to give, or to lend: 

He's always been square with "yours truly". 

And that's why I like him as a friend. 

I knock him, I know, but I do it 

The same to his face, as when away. 

And if other folks knock him, they may rue it. 

And wish they'd had nothing to say. 

I never make diagrams of him. 

And no maps of him have 1 penned, 

I do not analyze, — just love him. 

Because he has been a true friend. 

More than this, 1 will not repeat 

Because I think it would be indiscreet. 

AUNT VERA VENDI 
I had an aunt, named Vera Vendi; 
And with her I was always friendly. 
I knew her well, just like a book; 
And she was an old-fashioned cook. 
Was fine at all kinds of boiled dough, 
Dumplings, roley-poley, noodles, and so; 
Good at making all kinds of soup; 
1 always asked for a second scoup. 
Say Boys! you ought to hear me talk about 
Her mess of pig tails and sauerkraut. 
If you'd not listen to me, you'd surely orter. 
For that dish would make your mouth water. 
And when it came to all kinds of bread. 
You'd have to class Vera at the head. 
She made good, thick pumpkin pie. 
If you'd see them, but get none, you'd cry. 
And that's why, for Aunt Vera, I had such pride 
Because, of her cooking, I've often tried. 

NEW DISEASES 

It's no wonder that one's spirit freezes. 
When we have to meet so many new diseases: 
In Grand-Ma's days, the ills were all so simple; 
Croup, measles, and ranging down to pimples. 
Today, the New Diseases scare away our health. 
And the M. D.'s rob us of much of our wealth. 
They prop us up, or else they jolt us. 
And patch us with mustard, or linseed poultice 
If, today, we happen to get a little dizzy. 
The M. D.'s in a hurry, would get right busy. 
Then his action very soon increases. 
And he saws and cuts us to pieces. 

THE IRISH SHANTY 

If you want to go where wit and humor are plenty 
Come along down to an old Irishman's shanty. 
There we will find Pat, pipe in his mouth, so free, 

63 



That no king in his palace is prouder than he. 

He's honest, and never any one would he rob; 

He's faithful at his work, and sticks to his job. 

If you treat him right, on his help, you may depend; 

Be honest toward him and he'll ever be your friend, 

Pat is always very jolly, let come whatever may. 

And he's proud of his lowly shanty, in every way. 

He has a thick-stuffed mattress, bursting with straw. 

Has a double horse blanket, warm as you ever saw. 

For the want of a bedstead, it lies upon the floor; 

Pat says it's comfortable, so who would want more. 

He has a mirror frame, that hangs upon the wall; 

But Divil a face has ever been seen in i', at all. 

He has a. three-legged table, and a stool to match, 

And the door of his shanty is locked with a latch. 

He has a fine bureau, without any paint or gilt. 

Made of scraps of boards, when the shanty was built. 

You see he is comfortable, although not in style. 

He says "I've good health, that's all that's worth while. 

He believes this world is a very good place. 

In spite of the grief and sorrow of the race. 

He says "be jolly, remember a man with a scrow. 

Is as dense as a donkey, and dumb as an owl." 

Then he winds up, with a funny Irish diddy: 

What's the world to a man, if his wife is a widdy. 



IN MEMORY OF MY WIFE 

Farewell companion, my cheerful one; 
We part, now that your life is done: 
But I will cherish your memory, dear; 
Although you are gone, my thoughts are near. 
But thy name, to me, and all your friends. 
Will not fade quickly, 'cause your life ends. 
And it will live on, for many a year. 
Recollections thereof, will oft bring a tear. 
Your generous acts, and kindly thought 
Of others, that, cheerfulness to all brought. 
Thy life was so meek, so pure, and so kind, 
Often made us, to thy sorrows, blind. 
Now, thy name, as a trustworthy friend 
Will, revered and honored be, to the end. 
Yes, there was around thee such a dawn. 
Such as imagination could not have drawn: 
Of such cheerfulness never seen before; 
That no other person can ever restore. 
And always, in the time of my waning life 
I will still miss my once cheerful Wife. 



64 



TO A TANTALIZER 

It's little I know of the most of men, 
And it's too little do they know of mc. 
That I have learned how to handle a pen. 
Therefore I write these lines to thee. 
Attention to this message; get it careful, 
Or else you will, perhaps, beckon a final; 
Because your actions have been fearful; 
And the jolt you're apt to get on your spinal 
Is apt to hurt j'ou more than 'twill me. 
You're likely to get bumps of any size. 
So 1 write you now, so you can plainly see 
That if more of your acts tantalize, 
My patience may open up the exhaust 
Enough to cause me to break my rule. 
And you may have to pay the cost: 
For I'll not continue to grin and keep cool. 



THE PICNIC AT DUDLEY CREEK 

It was in 1868, upon' a bright and sunny day, 

Whilst going to a picnic, we were very gay. 

There were four couples in the joyful bunch. 

And we had packed in a tin box, food for lunch. 

We went to seek recreation, at a place where 

We could enjoy the shrubbery, grass, and fresh air. 

Besides having thrilling sights, and lunch to eat. 

To make our recreation and pleasure complete. 

One was to get a rig to carry the entire bunch; 

Ladies to pack in the box, the victuals for lunch. 

We agreed on the time for all of us to meet. 

Then we went straight out North eight street. 

At that lovely spot to the west, on Dudley creek. 

There to spend the day with our picnic. 

Where the biggest part of the day was spent. 

But we did not entirely avoid an accident. 

After enjoying ourselves until three P. M. 

As our appetites were sharp for lunch then. 

When we opened the food box, we saw a sight. 

Then we all laughed heartily, and affected delight. 

When we saw that the half-gallon milk bottle burst; 

And that all of the sponge cake was soaked the worst; 

And all the pies were a soden sight to behold; 

But there was no use for anybody to scold. 

So we spread out the cloth upon the grass. 

And prepared our feast, and forego the past. 

On our plates we laid the rolls, — all dripping. 

In a few minutes, grasshoppers were skipping 

65 



Over l!ie pies and rolls, also the cold meat, 
So it looked like we'd get nothing to eat. 
And then, all of a sudden, we heard some one utter: 
"Look, there's a big toad astride of the butter." 
From then on we wanted no more sensations. 
And we all agreed we had poor accomodations. 
I said, as picnicers, we're certainly amateur. 
And the chance for more pleasure is very poor. 
We all agreed that we must keep all still. 
Or the newspapers, a column would fill. 



GOOD AND BAD DEEDS 

You can cover their bodies with tears and earth. 

But their bad deeds you never can cover. 

They will live, as sure as they had birth; 

And as the winds blow, the wide world over. 

Bad deeds never die, any more than the good. 

As long as the earth keeps rolling round. 

So try to give the best, as much as you could. 

If on the right side, you want to be found. 

Give me the man who says what he thinks. 

The fellow whose spirit will ne're bend. 

The kind of a man whose word never shrinks. 

But will always stand by an honest friend. 

Always have righteous courage, with zest. 

As true as the north star shines at the pole, 

A man, able to meet fairly every test. 

As steadily as the earth continues to roll. 



STARTING WRONG 

Everything that I touch of a usual kind. 
Would turn out wrong, so 1 would find. 
So at last 1 .said: there's no use to try, 
Whilst contrariness ruled all by and by. 
Until I was demoralized with such grief, 
I thought there's no use clamoring for relief. 
And still everything seemed to go wrong; 
I wondered why better luck don t come along. 
And when all my affairs were in arrears, 
I sat me down and shed some tears; 
When a friend happened to come along. 
And said, "so your troubled, what is wrong." 
When I told him all, he scratched his head. 
And laughed out loud; and then he said: 
You have started wrong; I can see. 
Try the other way, and all will agree. 



66 



When beginning wrong, all is confusion, 

And that's why all proved a delusion. 

Remember, start right, you'll not frown, 

Like ypu do if starting upside down. 

There's a right and wrong way of doing things, 

And starting right, good luck brings. 

Starting wrong will be of no avail; 

And that's the reason why you fail. 

Since trifles make the sum of human things; 

Therefore half our misery from our foibles springs. 



THE BABBLING BROOK 

It seemed like the watchful minutes of each hour, 
Though still, and anon it adds up with power. 
And, like the sunshine, broken in the rill. 
Though turned aside, it is sunshine still. 
The current, that with gentle murmur glides, 
Being stopped, impatiently turns to the sides. 
But when its fair course is not hindered by stones. 
It makes charming music with its gentle tones. 
If 1 could flow like thee, and make thy stream, 
just as poetic an example — have thee as my theme: 
Though deep, yet gentle and clear, yet not dull; 
Strong, without rage, or over-flowing, but lull. 
I'd follow, until you reached the gulf's chasm. 
Where you seem to leap on as in a spasm. 
To swell, to protuberate, without avail. 
And mix with the gulf in a fierce gale. 
It seems that your fate is not just right. 
That you should be lost, clear out of sight. 



IF YOU CAN 

If you can plan and execute your own schemes. 
And see them do good, and not prove to be dreams: 
If you can trust yourself, while others doubt you. 
And can allow for theirs, and prove yours true; 
If you can wait and then prove you are right; 
Then you can depend, that you will win the fight. 
And if you've been lied about; but don't use lies. 
Then you will have proved that you are wise. 
If you can do that, and let truth be your master; 
Then you can conquer the liar's disaster. 
If you can live a life of honor and virtue. 
All the liars and foes, they can't hurt you 
In the eyes of people that're honest and upright. 
When you can show that you work in the light. 



67 



If you do these, you can live without a sigh, 
And meet a clear conscience in the bye-and-bye. 
So if you can fill this, without faults in it. 
Then your life will be worth aU that's in it. 



SHE SAW HER FIRST GAME 

No one knows which team will lose; 
So 1 say, if you ask which one to choose. 
In regard to the outcome or the ending, 
I must declare, it is all depending 
Entirely upon which has got the ability. 
Of muscular strength and agility. 
Therefor, your chance is just the same 
As is mine, to guess who'll win the game. 
Then She said: — "I just love base ba'l, 
Although I never yet saw a game at all. 
But from what I've read about it. 
The sport depends upon the hit. 
And the catch, or to pick up the ball. 
Also on the base run, without a fall. 
So I'm almost crazy to see the sport. 
And to learn the rules of its court. 
Like to see the batters fan the air. 
And to see the base runner get there. 
I may at first, not make a good guess. 
But will try my luck, never-the-less; 
Yes, I will yell for all, of course. 
Very likely, until 1 am hoarse." 



SHE IS NOTHING BUT HIS WIFE 

Usually there comes a time in our life. 
When a man goes in search of a wife; 
One who would promise always to obey 
All of his selfish wishes, in a loving way. 
He imagines that he will always be true 
To her, if only she will be gentle and do 
His washing and cooking, without strife. 
So that they can be happy, the rest of life. 
Then they will be brimming with joy. 
Happiness would not have any alloy. 
He finds one he's known since a child, 
Although she was at times a little wild. 
But now she has become a woman so fair. 
With bright eyes and auburn hair; 
He goes to see her almost every day. 
Thinking she'd like to pass the time away. 



68 



Finally he promises all the joys of life 

If she would agree to be his wife. 

He wove thoughts, that finally grew 

In her, the inspiration of his view, 

Of their mutual happy home scene. 

And saw the beautiful visions gleam; 

Touched her heart and intellect; 

Was sure his plan had no defect. 

So, whatever the fates would decree. 

She finally thought that she would be 

His partner for the rest of life, 

And agree to become his wife. 

As she th nks he is a perfect man. 

The poor, young thing loves all she can; 

And as she longs for his caress. 

Finally gives the happy answer. — yes. 

A while after marriage he changes his tune. 

Says she is nothing but a silly loon. 

Heretofore he called her his love and life; 

But now she is nothing but his wife. 



THE USUAL COURSE 

It's when I say goodbye, as going down the street. 

To some happy, joyous lassie I did meet. 

Who has a head of tossled auburn hair. 

Bright hazel eyes, complexion fair; 

She's lovely, to that, everyone will agree: 

More than that I'll say, it is no need. 

And it's no matter where she goes. 

She carries herself in a graceful pose. 

With neat fitting garments she's arrayed; 

I met her with a smile, being unafraid 

That I would not be met by the same. 

Although 1 did not mention her name. 

As both possessed an exultant heart. 

Therefore we did not need to use art; 

For our eyes shone passion so hard. 

That we did not have to show any card. 

No power could daunt our mood. 

As we had vowed our love, for good. 

Some think all our sorrows are healed. 

But they know not what's concealed. 

I think, whatever mortals crave. 

With some important endeavor; 

A wreath, a rank, or a grave; 

As the world goes on forever: 

Think this life is not too long. 

And therefore it's determine. 



69 



That most people will hear a song. 

Rather than a sermon. 

And fruit that's ripe in season 

Is as good as rhyme or reason 

TRUE LOVE WINS 

Pairing girls would kill each other, if they durst; 

Nature riles the female instinct to do her worst. 

In nature there's one fact that 1 have learned: — 

Most males are feeble, so far as female love's concerned. 

When one is handsome, she gets to fixing her man, 

She most always stumps him; it seems nature's plan. 

So the male shows that he has a heart that's weak. 

And then she soon finds out his softest streak. 

And he has bogus pride, not to show he is hurt. 

Which encourages her more, the heartless flirt. 

Fina ly, he would capitulate to her devise; 

Unless some good angel-girl opened his eyes. 

Then he learned to fill a true-love cup. 

And was resurrected by right kind of waking up. 

Results are ^vondrous to his recollections. 

Of true-love's good and noble perfections. 

THE LOVE-SICK SWAIN 

Oh dear, thy twin orbs, whose limpid rapture. 
Thou Fairy Queen dost my heart now capture: 
I feel as if 1 should like to give you a crown 
That would be a fitting emblem to your gown. 
Let me be thy servant, as long as 1 live. 
Then I will glorify, and my love to you give; 
Promise I will protect you while alive; 
To live for you, to please you 1 will strive. 
Let me but serve you with every breath. 
And I will be thine, truly, until death. 
And if in death you be first to recline. 
My memory shall regard you as sublime. 
Let me be your mate, in your mind awaken; 
Then through life, you shall never be forsaken. 
But over your care I shall always hover. 
And prove to you a warm and true lover. 
So that our bliss will never die. 
And no sorrow will ever bring you a sigh. 

THAT'S WHO SHE IS 

A girl that 1 met upon the street 
Had rosy cheeks and dainty feet; 
She looked at me with a saucy eye, 

70 



That made me think of a clear blue sky. 
She smiled at me and, took miy arm 
And said it would surely do no harm. 
For she knew it would give me pleasure 
To treat me as if she was my treasure. 
I said, you are indeed a peach, 
I'm glad you came within my reach. 
So we'll go at once to get a dinner. 
She agreed. (To think I could win her.) 
So we moved along with a lively stride. 
Until we reached home, — went inside: 
Then she smiled at me, I declare. 
And gracefully said, "take a chair". 
Now you, no doubt, think it's funny 
That I should call her "my honey". 
Perhaps you think it a queer life 
Until I tell you, — "She's my Wife". 



JOB.— CHAPTER VI. 

Oh! that my grief were thoroughly weighed; 

Arid my calamity, in a heap, on a balance laid: 

Then they'd be found heavier than the sand of the see 

Therefore, all my words would swallowed up be. 

The arrows of God are the poison that's in me; 

Terrors of God are all arrayed, don't you see. 

Doth the wild ass bray, when he has some gras.s? 

Or loweth an oxi unless he's fed tacks of brass? 

Can that which is unsavory taste with some salt? 

Or can you make good beer without malt? 

Things that're refused, or not fit to eat, touched? 

At least if you must eat, do not take so much. 

Oh! that God would grant to me my sigh, 

And just let me lay me down and die. 

Then I'd be comforted in all my sorrow. 

So that we could have my funeral tomorrow. 

What is the use of life, without hope? 

If you know, you'll drop at the end of a rope. 

What's my use, when my strength is pass, 

And all my wisdom is like unto a jackass. 

To him that's afficted, what good is pity. 

When his forsaken God is always witty. 

My friend's been as deceitful as a brook. 

Which like most streams, run to a crook. 

When things got hot they hid their face. 

When things got cold, they change their place. 

They were confounded when they lost hope. 

And then everyone let go of the rope; 

Did they stand by me and help to wash? 

No, indeed not, they all left me, by gosh. 

71 



Do you think patience could soften my words, 
After they deserted, like a bunch of sheep-herds. 
Yea, and they even went and dug me a pit. 
And never saw if t would my body fit. 
Now therefore look on me, see if I did lie: 
If so, come and tell me, then I'll say good-bye. 
Your eyes will henceforth see no more. 
For 1 will take a boat, and row to shore; 
Disappear out of sight, let a cloud consume, 
After these forty lines 1 have illume. 



THE FUNERAL 

The other day, a friend had died: 

And then, the undertaker applied 

For the job of embalming him. 

And putting his body in proper trim. 

It is strange and weird sight. 

That makes the superstitious look affright. 

When their mind, to such notions cling. 

About ghosts, spirits, and such things; 

When they see a corpse's pale face. 

They wish to shift from the place. 

And then with sadness are surprised. 

To shed tears out of their eyes. 

And move about in the room. 

Sniffing the flowers' fragrant perfume. 

And think of heaven, and other things. 

As well as of harps and angel wings. 

In came a preacher, slick and stout, 

With quiet manners, and devout, 

And with a very sanctimonious air 

He began with a very solemn prayer; 

Finally, began conciously to preach, 

His orthddox creed for to teach. 

And thus he preached for half an hour, 

His words throbbing with great power. 

"Friends, don't weep over this lot of clay. 

For his spirit, it has gone away. 

The Lord wanted him to come above. 

Where he will meet happiness and love. 

The Lord gave him to you as a loan, 

Only to stay here until he was grown. 

He now has glorious sights in view. 

And he will be glad to welcome you. 

To come to him, and the Lord, to rest. 

As the Lord knows what for us is best. 

Friends, he has gone from earth to rest. 

He was a man that always did his best. 



11 



And from early dawn to close of day 
He always worked, and toiled away. 
He labored hard for fifty years; 
Endured his burdens and his tears. 
He toiled and devled, so as to save, 
But from now, will rest in his grave. 
That is the rule for all good men, 
So now we all will say. Amen". 



I'M NOT SUPERSTITIOUS 

Though no way supersittious, I neither make a jest, nor sneer. 

When other people talk of omens and signs that should guide us here; 

For it's little we know of beyond; and I do not forget the day 

When I so near touched hands with death, and nearly passed away. 

And if we knew what it is that marks the boundary of this world of ours. 

If we're certain of all that lies beyond and under the hills; 

And had full knowledge of what there is as unknown powers. 

And matter and life that all the vast universal space fills. 

But the eternal truth, beyond all hopes, fears, and doubt, 

Frail as is the web that the God-of-Nature has spun. 

While calm science of centuries points them out. 

But let us always remember, none knows from whence he came. 

And where we go from here, it will certainly be just the same. 



CHARM OF SMILES 

Smiles have power for all that's good: 

So let them be with us forever; 

And let us learn their cheerfulhood 

Be so much that we will lose them never. 

They form wreaths on lips of beauty. 

As long as we have life, let them lie 

With us, a very pleasant duty. 

For a smile is the cheapest boon on earth. 

Because it does not cost us anything; 

And yet it can change gloom to mirth 

By making all around, want to sing. 



THE HUNS DESECRATION 

The Huns have taken the bells from steeples. 
The beUs that hung in many church towers; 
That tolled the graceful chimes to peoples. 
And called out the pious praying hours. 
The consecrated bells will call no more 
The people from the sad village street; 



73 



Telling them that the old church door 

Is now open to all the people's feet. 

But, should not the Huns be cursed 

For changing their celestial knell, 

To destructions bloody thirst 

Into an instrument of war's hell. 

The Junkers creed of shot and shell. 

Is of the Kultur's attributes of hell. 

And as long as their rule on earth remain. 

Humanity, on earth, will be rent in twain; 

Until Justice will break the German greed, 

Prussia will be a foul and loathsome creed. 

THE BARBAROUS GERMAN WAR 

Listen, and you'll hear the trumpets afar, 
And the rattle and crack of cannon come. 
It's the signal of Barbarous German war: 
With the strains of bugle and of drum. 
Oh! can it be, God is discouraged quite, 
When we have, for years, prayed and thought 
That sure this world was going right. 
And it was behaving as it really ought. 
War, marshalled by Kaiser, with shot and shell. 
Who is the image of crue! damnation; 
And more barbarous than imps of hell. 
He's ruining the land of his neighbor nations. 
If America would lie down, a coward crew. 
And let the barbarians win this fuss. 
She'd prove to humanity, she's not true. 
And then, later, we would be treated worse. 
And wherever we went, we'd find a ban 
That would show to us, the cowards fate. 
And we'd be shirked by all fellow-men. 
And the biggest butt of this world's hate. 
Some go on with their false self praise. 
With their secret plotting and scheming; 
Thinking they've learned to pave the ways 
Of deceiving all those that are dreaming. 
But humanity's friend, is old Uncle Sam, 
Who will save us from being martyrs. 
We know he's usually as mild as a lamb. 
But when aroused to fight, he's a tartar. 
No wrong ever committed, but it will recoil; 
It's a rule, that retribution will fo'Iow wrong. 
It's nature's rule, it never fails, nor be a foil; 
Although the execution may tarry long. 
Uncle Sam was never known to be a miser; 
And, he will do his best to get the Kaiser. 
We must agree that we will never cease 
To advocate a "League-to-enforce-Peace '. 



74 



THE TEUTONIC TERROR 

The cause of this war is world dominating power, 

Which has taken root of rulers, Teutonic, the flower 

Of the German military caste, philosophy like 

The old Hebrew God partnership, for to strike 

The Pagan-Christian Civilization such a blow. 

So that could dominate all earth here below. 

And in order to tread the road to a durable peace. 

Civilization must see "that power" must decrease. 

In order to escape the spirit of unrest upon this earth. 

And give Natural laws and Evolution a new birth. 

We hope it can lead to a permanent peace: 

For otherwise, this terrible war cannot cease. 

And we trust that "1918" will show it can cope 

The problems that frustrated "191 7's Hope. 



THE WORLD'S ALL A'TREMBLE 

Yea; today the world is all in a tremble. 

Though political and religious creeds dissemble. 

As humanity suffers the blight of greeds. 

On the world's threshold of age-old creeds, 

In the present low-murmuring, a menace; 

Not a forerunner of woeful lack of penance; 

Of the unrest and passions, of which there's no need, 

Or can't we learn the truth for which we bleed. 

Not all tyranny has died with the past ages. 

Nor have we heeded the counsel of sages; 

To learn the real meaning of the word, brother. 

Alas; we still feel mad hate of one another; 

We still continue barbarous hate to incite. 

Instead of breaking fetters, wrongs to requite. 

It seems that some impartial meditation 

Ought ot save humanity, by inspiration; 

For a universal peace and brotherhood bequest. 

By moulding a world-wide union for rest. 

For we knov/ that the fate of all nations, 

Must be gained honestly, by meditations. 

Why shall we not heed the murmuring call. 

Everlasting Peace for Home and Society of all. 

WAR'S ANGUISH 



pass, 



The worst has come to 
Discordant came at last. 
And sounds its trumphet blast; 
Peace and good-will is cast 
In the lot, as a contrast: 

75 



And each does as they dast 

To cause the human anguish to roar, 

And heap horrors o'er and o'er. 

With fiendish cruelty more 

That all the hellish deeds before; 

Worse than they ever bore; 

Reaching from shore to shore; 

Until we lose all hope for right 

Of Freedom, from the blight 

Beneath the sun's shining light, 

To gain it with all our might. 

To make kindness, bounteous good, 

With right and justice understood. 

And every man to join a brotherhood. 

For all and every neighborhood. 



THE KAISER 

Wants to boss the whole creation, 

And trying to bankrupt every nation; 

And force them to their Kultur teaching. 

By them and their own preaching; 

By trying their civilization's solution. 

In opposition to Nature's sane Evolution. 

Punishing all nations with criminal libel. 

By preaching, he is chosen by the bible 

To rule all nations by his preachings 

That all must believe Nietzscheis teachings. 

Or else they will never get salvation. 

If they refuse, they will get extermination. 

For that's the rule of their combination; 

And its got to be accepted by every nation. 

And be ruled by his political level. 

Or each refusing, will be sent to the devil. 

Each must acknowledge that all is well; 

If they don't want to be sent to hell. 

Civilization, on this plan, is adjusted; 

All refusals will just be busted; 

Unless everyone will be his friend. 

Their life on earth must come to an end. 



HELP WIN THE WAR 

While the sun, with its brilliant light 
Gives life to all animated organs so bright. 
That it will greatly aid in giving salvation 
Towards saving multitudes from starvation. 
By giving encouragement to those that plow. 



76 



Plant, and harvest, by the sweet of their brow: 

Working early and late, out in the fields. 

Striving to get more bountiful yields; 

To sustain the aged, and also the younger. 

So as to feed and keep them from hunger; 

And encourage soldiers to win the day. 

As on the battle fields they lead the affray. 

So they will lead on the glorious advance. 

Onward, with shouts of victory of chance; 

To gain the battle for the whole human race, 

All over the universal world's face. 

Fight onward until the last of the foes fall. 

And Liberty and Justice are given to all. 

Give to the world Freedom's Sacrament, 

And assurance to live in peace and content. 

Be able to render to humanity, its prize. 

With pride, at even enormous sacrifice. 

Forgive, oh gracious thought, the vagabonds. 

Those bloodthirsty fiends of war's infernal hounds. 

Whose fangs have torn many lands asunder. 

Baptising Europe's air with cannon thunder: 

With barbarous waste of lands and souls. 

By their hell-kindled hideousness in rolls 

Against humanity's throne, grim cannons spoil. 

Bringing ruin to neighbors forests and soil. 

This fiend-fed nightmare that out-stares 

The dark negation of human prayers. 

A gathering choas, that brings bitter tears 

To us, doubting of our spirit-wrecking fears. 

As they stalk over the earth with false pride 

Of their "kultur", to which we must not abide. 

While in most, a gloom of soulless fate regret 

To bleed, while half the world runs red and wel. 

As a sleepy vapor veils the early morn 

Greets the slumbering earth with scorn, 

Cheeks blanched with grief, which may not assuage. 

By the atrocious crimes of war's outrage. 



THE YANKEE MARINER 

We are the finest sea-dogs you've ever seen. 

We are comrades of the United States marine. 

And our flag has been unfurled to every breeze. 

We have sailed in every different seas; 

And we're proud that we belong to Navy corps; 

You'll find us always ready to fight, as before, 

In this, the world's horriblest disaster, 

We shall try our best to be the master. 

By subjugating the wicked Junker horde. 

With shot and shell, and the mighty sword. 



77 



And abolish the barbarous fiends of hate 

That have laid so many lands desolate. 

Our Flag, which is the flag of the Free and True, 

We love your stripes of red, and field of blue. 

The World has learned of our grand contemplations 

And how we see freedom's desire of all nations; 

With hope that Liberty's dew will nourish. 

So that man's progress shall grow and flourish. 



THE BOLD SOLDIER BOY 

There's not a trade a going 
That is worth the knowing. 
Nor ever worth the showing, 
But the gloriuos one a-growing; 
Called "the bold soldier boy ". 
Many men have volunteered, 
Because they have never feared 
To go to front, not to the rear'ed; 
And they were heartily cheered. 
As the bold soldier boy. 
But at last we had to draft. 
To get them from abaft. 
To fill up the army's shaft. 
To learn the soldiers craft; 
Of a bold soldier boy. 
But when they learned to drill. 
They soon lost all their chill; 
And gained in their skill. 
With a very good will: 
To be a bold soldier boy. 
And when they get to France, 
And march to the advance, 
The Hun's 11 see at a glance 
That they have got a chance 
To meet the bold soldier boy. 
When he begins to shoot a gun 
They'll find it lots of fun. 
After the fighting has begun. 
To make the Junkers run 
From the bold soldier boy. 
After we give them the lick. 
We'll take away their stick. 
Give them shovel and pick. 
Set them to work so quick. 
For the bold soldier boy. 
When the war has ceased. 
We'll declare universal peace. 
Over the world to increase. 
And never to be re'eased. 



78 



By the bold soldier boy. 

And they come home so proud, 

They'll be received by the crowd 

With cheers, so very 'oud. 

And to jar away the cloud; 

To the bold soldier boy. 

They will be glad of the name. 

And of their historic fame. 

By which to them came, 

Of their triumphal gain, 

Of a bold soldier boy. 



THE PREACHER 



1 went to church last evening, and heard 

A preacher who propounded the gospel word. 

From the bible he took a text on some junk. 

And spoke of God's Ancient Saints, and bunk. 

He had long hair, and a face long-drawn out. 

Said if we did not believe, we'd get a route 

From this wicked earth, all the way to hell. 

And then it would be too late for us to yell. 

He spoke of others of two thousand years ago; 

Of how they lived, and died, and so; 

Told of Angels, Saints, Priests, and others. 

And how they did, and didn't as brothers. 

How they labored, and how they dreamed; 

Strived to worhsip, — but it all seemed 

To smell musty, and all covered with dust. 

If we would live like them, we'd better rust. 

Priests will have to speak out straight. 

Or else their preaching is out of date. 

For people that got learning in our schools, 

Are progressive, and not ignorant fools. 

They live like men, in homes, not in holes. 

And do not spend life to fret about souls. 

I'd like to ask the priest, — if I dast, 

"When Gabriel's horn will blow its blast. 

And the earth, and all that's in it, has past. 

Where will the Devil and Hell be at last". 

"Can you, a wise head, with a heart to feel. 

Change human woe into human weal"? 

By preaching ancient yarns by the reel 

Can you save our souls from the devil's steel. 

Does your God have a special plan. 

To condemn a soul by your church's ban. 

Don't you know, if the truth you would tell, 

That they who sin, make their own hell? 

That the hypocrite that church-aid needs. 

Can't save his soul by counting beads? 

79 



There is no worse devil on earth than he. 

But God will save him by paying a fee. 

But the honest hearted, upright man, 

That always strives to do the best he can; 

Because, against your doctrine will rebel. 

He, when he dies, must surely go to hell. 

True righteousness is not in any creeds. 

But is in kindness, true and upright deeds; 

And rejects all unnatural claims of church, 

Covered with dust, — through which we search 

For all the fal.se conceits of ancient men, 

Who inspired by their craft, or by their pen. 

The church uses two agencies, your soul to save, — 

It's Fear and Love, to be used this side of the grave. 

Fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, they say; 

Love of an imaginary God will lead us to pray. 

Unless you accept their creed, and you believe. 

Otherwise you're damned, and salvation cannot receive. 

The preacher offers us the riddle of a sphynx. 

And I wonder at times what he actually thinks. 

He sings the sacred hymns, loud and strong. 

So as to stir up sanctimonious emotions of the throng. 

By using with all his vim, and power of his voice, 

And chants soft refrains, to make hearts rejoice; 

Instead of teaching true Evolution's plan. 

To lead rank and file to serve Nature's man. 

Do unto others as they should do to you, as a whole, 

Trust to do right, by impulse of the soul. 

On momentous time Evolution reappears. 

As the tragic hour has come to conquer fears: 

To strike a fateful blow for all that's best. 

By stern demand of freedom and progress. 

From the ancient teachings it has come 

To save all nature's human precious sum. 

Of freedom's boon: the people's noblest right; 

And save all the world from ancients blight. 

The cause demands that every bit of strength 

Of. brainy heads, help to win triumph at length; 

By will, reserve and nerve to win the figth. 

And save, unstained, the world's sacred right. 

So that all our might of truth and brain. 

We blot from suffering earth, error's reign. 

And hope this world's greatest new birth. 

Will hasten the enlightenment of all the earth. 

Make this world where all will do their best. 

And encourage all to work with joyful zest. 

Then every human can most always thrive, 

And enjoy this world whilst they're alive. 

Most of them will be able to see the light. 

And treat all kindly, just, and right 

Be an honest man whom others can trust, 

80 



A man to meet and match everything just: 

Broad-minded, clear-conscience of thought, 

And be able to handle great tasks as they ought; 

Tackle problems if new, old, or perplex, 

To carry them through, even if complex. 

Able to meet and match most any foes 

With a will to win any trick they chose. 

He who will, is the man to win the day. 

And hold the fort, and win his way. 

Through the North, South, East and West; 

That kind of a man will win the test. 

To go through life, with good manners possessed, 

Is to be kind unto all, rich or poor, and the oppressed. 

For kindness and mercy are balms that heal 

The sorrow, the pains, and the woes, humans feel. 

Remember, no matter what creed any believed 

We will all be equal, when of life we're relieved. 

To go through life's journey, as we travel along. 

We may stumble at times into ways that're wrong; 

For paths of this life, are of light and of maze. 

From nowhere to nowhere, lead all its ways 

A thousand different theories, are so, or so. 

But with all our thoughts, all we seem to know 

Is, we are born and live a while, and die; 

But never yet has any person proved the reason why. 



THE CHANGING SEASONS 

Springtime comes, and the ice leaves the shore. 
And soon the blue birds will come once more; 
Since the freezing winds of winter are away. 
The grass is getting greener every day. 
As the gentle breeze of spring comes here. 
The crocus and violets give us cheer. 
Soon we'll hear the orioles sing in the trees; 
We know we will also hear the buzzing bees; 
See robins running over the velvety grass. 
And the aphis and bugs will come and pass. 
When we get a real good, waim rain 
It's time to fix the honeysuckle frame. 
And you'll notice the day is longer than night. 
That all nature, everywhere is bright. 
Soon, the rapture of gathering strawberry 
Will make you be so much more merry. 
With thunder and lightning in the skies, 
Then begins the swarming of flies. 
When it's time for longest summer day. 
As the blood of your life gels gay. 
When the grapes get ripe, spend an hour or so 
Under the arbor, then we'll go 



81 



Take a walk to the growing corn fields. 

Observe the plants, and gue.ss its yield. 

Next the luscious muskmellon comes around. 

With the golden fruit lying on the ground. 

Before long, we will be^in to reach 

Into the tree to gather the delicious peach. 

Bye apd bye, the hot days will pass away. 

Apples come, as nights get longer than day. 

And as frost is on pumpkins, we know 

Before long to expect to see some snow. 

Then gather cabbage, and pick out 

Solid heads, to make sauerkraut. 

Dig potatoes, put them in the cellar. 

As good food in winter for a feller. 

Gather the turnips and the parsnips, 

Remember to attend to all these tips. 

And store some wall — ,and hickory nuts. 

They are fine winter food, in your huts. 

And winter comes, to demonstrate 

It's a good time of year to educate 

In all branches of Nature's unerring laws, 

Tt' learn the seasons change, and its cause. 



THE MAN WHO CAME 

It was about 2,000 years or more ago 

When there appeared a Man from below 

The Galilean village, called "Nazarene" 

Of hills and houses in between. 

Among the Hebrew tribes of Irsaelites, 

Who had a religion of one-god rites. 

But who were at each other in fierce contention; 

Too versatile for an harmonious convention. 

For generations had quarrels and strife. 

Until their nation finally lost its life. 

So at this age they were under Roamn rule. 

Who governed, but tried to keep all clans cool. 

Prophetic, delineated clans of Jehovist; 

The sanctimonious priests were extremists. 

They had pictured yarns of mythology, 

A sort of imagined system for apology. 

The historic research show it a token 

That the proud Jewish spirit was broken. 

But that God was especially for their religion. 

Their neighbor's God was only a stool pigeon. 

The priests, jealous of their own reverence 

As the ordained servants as preference 

Of God; for them to be the only teachers 

Of the common clans, as their preachers. 

As true followers of pious men for ages 

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Made them the only men as Hebrew sages. 

At about this age all the clans had decided 

That 'twas best for all to be divided, , 

Pharisees, proud and orthodox ceremonist, 

Pretended holiest-of-holy, and inharmonist. 

Another clan existed, called the Saducees 

Who pretended angels or future, as" traducees. 

The Essenes, another clan of exclusive sect 

Of Jews, who all but poor and humble did reject. 

Now, this Man who at this time did appear 

Was an Essenes, and that is quite clear. 

For He was opposed to both other clans 

And protested against each of their plans. 

He said the Saducees, whom he confuted. 

Were in the wrong and always disputed. 

He opposed the Pharisees as hypocrites 

And inclined to be partial sophists. 

But some of the Jews that had imitated 

Egyptian elysium'^, when they .^emigrated 

From that land; and this Essenes Man 

Had learned of this very mysterious plan. 

That taught plans that He thought wise 

But in which the humble could not rise. 

Himself being a humble carpenter's son. 

Thought it should include every one. 

So he taught it among the poor and humble 

And then the initiated began to grumble. 

He concluded the best way to beat it 

Was lo teach it to others as a secret. 

The poor soon learned and were pleased; 

They flocked to Him, and soon incr ased. 

He became a leader whom all did trust. 

As He was charitable to all, and so just. 

But they did not accurately define His feeling 

Nor the infinite philosophy of His revealing. 

But they all knew that they could depend 

Upon His suggestions, as a true friend. 

When the Pharisees had found this out 

They set plans to give Him the rout. 

When they found just how things went, 

To the Roman ruler word was sent 

That the poor had made Him their King. 

This made a fuss so as to make the welkin ring. 

The Romans enquired with all their might 

To learn if the Pharisees were right. 

Then the Romans had the Man arrested, 

And the Pharasees appeared and attested. 

And the Man was condemned for treason. 

To be executed on a cross for that reason. 

This caused the Man to be more popular. 

Among the humble, and none could stop 'er. 

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The Romans thought it would soon die out 

So, of it, they did not worry about. 

But it increased quietly for about 300 years. 

When Constantine, a Roman, appears. 

Before election, to the humb'es he wrote 

He would recognize them, if they'd vote 

For him as the emperor of all Rome. 

Which won, and the humbles went home 

Rejoicing over the happy end 

That gave them the emperor as a friend. 

For a time everything went nice. 

As they could now mingle without secret rite. 

They organized as the established Christian church; 

And soon became strong, with many a lurch. 

In Judea, Syria, Arabia, Asia Minor, Lucia, 

Thracia, Greece, Macedonia, and Achaia. 

Their teachings were moral, kind and grand, 

They seemed to hold wherever they got a stand. 

Be charitable to the poor in your neighborhood. 

Was a principle that everyone understood. 

And do unto others as you wish they'd do. 

Under the same circumstances, unto you. 

Treat every good man as if he's your brother, 

Alwaj's try in distress to help one another. 

When the pagans observed their success 

They schemed to join, and to get possess. 

Then argued that they amalgamate with them. 

By mixing their gorgeous rites and diadem. 

After it got to be mostly of a pagan plan 

Objection to more, by the plain people, began. 

And when one "Nestor " took up the fight. 

Because all the paganism added was not right. 

And when by pagan trickery he was overruled 

He withdrew and started a purer school. 

Nestor then had a very grand success. 

And this gave the Romans much distress. 

The Nestorians, as they were now called 

Caused many of the Christians for to fall 

From the Roman pagan organization. 

When Christianity changed to paganization. 

Even some of the Christians did believe 

That in time the pure would be relieved. 

From incorporations of pagan mythology. 

And revert to pure Christian theology. 

But contrary dissentions resu'ted. 

After a few ages, the Arabians consulted 

With the Nestorians to join with and organize. 

With their conceptions of pure ideas realize. 

Of a new religion of God's transformation 

Without any Hebrew or Roman contamination. 

And it resulted in the wrenching from Rome 

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The largest portion of its empire; and then come 

The establishing of the empire of Saracens, 

Led by the rising Mohammedan Arabians, 

Who pressed rapidly with intellectual developments. 

Absorbing Buddist and Arabian philosophy improvements. 

Should not the day of anguish and fear go free. 

Or how shall those who look but do not see; 

Can they realize what man is in God's sight? 

Fear shall shake them when His judgments smite. 

As tempests sweep the fierce storm so sublime 

Through the dense darkness of unknown clime. 

When they hear the tramp of soldiers or chanting priests. 

To cower the slaves of bondage as herded beasts, 

Will God say that thus My children shall die 

Because priests have said so; but cannot they lie. 

As they boast they are the Lord's host down here, 

And that they will wait as the doom draws near. 

The Lord's love should be as flame of fire. 

And should not belong to priests for hire. 

Nor should they condemn us from heaven's home; 

Does thy kindgom come only to priests of Rome? 

Man is his own star, and the one that can 

Render an honest, upright, and perfect man. 

Commands all right, light, influence and fate. 

Nothing to him falls too early or too late. 

As our acts our angels are, whether good or ill. 

They're our fatal shadows that walk by us still. 

The philosophy of the Mohammedans was 

Analogy of the body of man and its cause: 

Was a matter consisting of substance of nature's store, 

His spirit is from a Divine intellect, and nothing more. 

And that each gets restoration from the same. 

And returns natural to from where it came. 

Now let us return to the Christians again. 

And follow them up without any refrain. 

Pagans called it the Roman Catholic Church 

After the Nestorians withdrew from its perch. 

The Roman church, torn to pieces by schisms. 

Through ambitions of its clergy, and by Chiliasm; 

Revolution at last by the Greek Catholic 

And the Roman Catholic, the division came quick. 

Then the two churches went their way, 

Romans to the north, Greeks went easterly. 

And we must agree the Romans played a part. 

Of magnificient work against Barbarians in the start. 

In conflicts with the uncivilized feudal chiefs. 

Brought civilization, for the masses griefs. 

For a few hundred years did a deal of good. 

By the aid of the mailed legions and priesthood. 

But when they became wealthy, and their sways 

Became tyrannical at times in most brutal ways, 

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And finally refused any freedom of worship, 

To all unless they join them, or get a whip. 

And they offered little to masses but degradation. 

Many were persecuted after excommunication. 

Made many tyrannical laws, discouraged intellect. 

Claiming the priests must decide any defect. 

At last another man appeared on the spot, 

Luther, who proclaimed against their tommyrot. 

As he was native-born son of northern land. 

Against Roman Pope's rule hie took a stand. 

Against their tyrannical and unchristian way. 

And in time he ^ot control, and won the day. 

By seperating many of his countrymen. 

And organized a "Protest Lutheran" then. 

It was hoped this would be very apt to result 

In change for better, from a wise consult. 

But Protestantism brought many new isms, 

Until Christianity had a handred different chisms. 

It gave the civilized world religions more free. 

But they all gathered fruit from the same old tree. 

Religion seems instinctive to have perceived. 

Science will be the wrecking-rock it'll receive; 

But if any such catastrophe does arrive 

It will be because the church it not alive 

To the unavoidable action of Nature's laws. 

And their ancient doctrines is the true cause. 

But their cry, "Believe, have faith and believe," 

Is only a refrain that wi'l them surely deceive. 

Unless they build new and stab'e foundation 

Give your tenants a change, you'll miss confirmation. 

For certain by your tabooing reason and geology 

You necessarily do expose your weak theology. 

Nature's laws everywhere, always give solution 

And proves the true "Philosophy of Evolution". 

To me it surely speaks of true intelligence. 

It unfolds the "How", the "Why" and the "Whence". — 

Of all the laws of Nature, with the "Truth," 

That far surpasses all "Theology", forsooth. 

Remember, disintigration follows decay, 

And reproduction precedes decay in every way. 

And as Natures laws are everywhere the same. 

So is the Universal Principal from which they came. 

Probably there is in Nature an invisible principle; 

But it's certainly no personal god, convincible. 

It's for want of abiding convictions of the time. 

By want of truth, we have so many lapses into crime. 

We must have truth and right in order to exist. 

Otherwise falsehood and deception will persist. 

Thus truth has to fight its way through falsehood; 

And justice has to contend against fraudhood. 

Virtue must oppose obstructions of lustfulness; 

86 



Likewise love must exert to overcome hatefulness. 

Thus it has been resistance against evil courses, 

A slow and tedious effort against bad forces. 

It's time for earnest and united effort in every way; 

Science desires a betterment without delay. 

To have the code of civil laws clear and brief. 

So that contingencies of human life get relief. 

There are some things that you ought to know, 

As on this earth through life you are apt to go. 

We all recognize many wrongs in our sight, 

That we could better, with changes slight. 

Instead of teaching how to save your soul. 

Learn how your body is built, and how to control 

It, so that you can manage and conserve it; 

And develope your brain so as to profit. 

It's not what you eat, but v/hat you digest 

That builds your tissues, that make you best. 

For good nutrition is a benefit to mankind. 

As it supplies the life-blood and feeds the mind. 

To learn Nature's comprehensive laws. 

So to understand life and death, and its cause. 

There's nothing better for humans than health. 

As it's always the very best of Nature's wealth. 

Ho\v glorious it smooths a wrinkled brow of care; 

And lifts the mind from sorrow and despair. 

And we all need it here, the mighty and the low; 

It's a cheerful, tender, and gentle glow. 

But as it is, the human race is a sight to see; 

For they are a mob of beings of every degree. 

In the endless changes of every days task, 

I hoped for a comprehensive way to ask . 

That to be able to understand, off hand, 

A true philosophic view of nature and man. 

1 say "Life" I do not know just what thou art; 

But I do know that thou and I must part. 

Also the sinner who dared to die unforgiven; 

And the saint who hoped to enjoy a heaven; 

As the eye of the sage, and the heart of a brave. 

Are hidden and lost in the depth of the grave. 

The wise and the foolish; guilt j' and just. 

Must quietly mingle their bones in the dust. 

Mans ingress in this world is naked and bare. 

His progress through the world is trouble and care. 

His egress out of the world, — nobody knows where: 

But if you do what's right, you need not prepare. 

For it's not what you seem, nor what you profess. 

But it's what you do that counts for righteousness. 

This life can be made a happy ot to all who partake it. 

The fault's you own if not, for life's what you make it. 

We all meet things that are good, and things that are bad, 

And many things and habits, we'd better never had. 

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Don't blame Nature; it has certain changeless rules. 

You can't warp them out of place with ever so many tools, 

Priests try to send you to heaven, and forgive sin, 

But Christ said your kingdom is within. 

He said, to dispel gloom, get a new birth. 

Thus create your heaven here on earth. 

The wicked, fascinated by vice, get callous and gross, 

And they sin and observe not their own loss. 

They go whirling in glee until being obfuscate 

And do not realize their fate until it's too late. 

And from their immoral actions comes 

Their degradation and contribution to slums 

That increase their blind guilt; with others join 

In more wickedness in order to gain coins. 

It's true some reprobates get by without blame 

Because their chums help to cover up the shame. 

But to such as a rule, before their life is ended, 

There is some kind of punishment blended. 

Christian or reprobate, the humble or high. 

Leave their bad deeds behind when they die. 

Such usually think the world is headed wrong. 

And that the righteous are weak, but they are strong. 

So that with their wrongs, so used to they get. 

That they lose self respect, or never care or fret. 

Through weary days, midst changing scenes 

The unruly and evil carry out their schemes. 

And nightly stealthily in the arc light's gleam 

The burglar and murderer slink in its beam. 

If we were all raised according to nature's laws. 

In a few generations w^ickedness would pause. 

But by teaching falsehood to the young. 

Genuine consciousness gets stung. 

You can't warp a youth's brains with fairy tales. 

But when of age, unless they're molly-coddles, it fails. 

For when they learn the true natural laws 

All mystery to them is known, and its cause. 

Therefore to teach the truth to a youth is wise 

And more logical than teaching them theological lies. 

For if you fill the young brain fads, for attraction. 

If at age they have learned nature, it brings reaction. 

Therefore it is wisest to learn truth at the start 

Instead of teaching them fairj' notions to impart. 

Success never is gained if you start out wrong. 

Even if all the plans are laid quite strong. 

With an erroneous start you will not prevail. 

And that's the reason so many humans fail. 

Theology's old method has proved obsolete; 

I hope we'll have an improvement some day yet. 

A wise man will be apt to change his mind. 

If on investigation that he was wrong, he'll find 

That the proof on the other side is strong 

88 



And that his former thoughts were wrong. 

But one who is prejudiced not to see, 

Is a human failure and deserves no sympathy. 

I don't pretend to comprehend all nature's plan. - 

But my philosophy is: Be true, learn all you can. 
And tell me not this life on earth is but a dream, 
For whoever advocates that has a very poor theme. 
But investigate themes that seem good. 
And study nature as much as I could. 

Waste not brain effort on a souls of pin-head size 

You don't need a rifle if only shooting flies. 

Neither estimate a person by a spread of sail, 

A peacock and lizard display the gorgeous tail. 

Of all the notable things of this earth, 

The foolishest or queerest is pride of birth. 

Because you flourish in worldly affairs. 

Don't be haughty, and put on silly airs. 

Don't be proud, and turn up your nose 

At poorer people that wear plainer clothes. 

Remember that all human beings are born 

Under the same natural laws, without scorn. 

A healthy body and a conscience clear. 

Toiling for bread in an humble sphere. 

Doubly blest with content and health, 

Untired by the lust of cares of wealth; 

For honorable living and lofty thought 

Adorn and enable a poor man's cot. 

For mind and morals in Nature's plan 

Are the genuine tests of a gentleman. 

And those who wish contentment to find. 

These homely truths should bear in mind. 

In modest arrogance of an honest man. 

Then slowly will the rest begin to see the plan. 

And eventually observe your valuation 

And learn to appreciate your estimation. 

What does it take to make a man complete. 

From the crown of his head to the soles of his feet— 

With naught to subtract and nothing to add, 

A man not too good and a man not too bad? 

As a rule the various faces and costumes blend, 

Still are a cosmopolitan lot to comprehend. 

As each individual to a common center leads 

Through the various ruts, brush and weeds. 

At first force made conquest, that made law. 

Then tyrants taught superstition the masses to awe. 

They they called a God down from the skies. 

And a devil from below they got him to arise. 

By fear they arranged the masses as slaves. 

So to be until they died and went into graves. 

Their theory springs from two different streams, 

And each rolls onward to two different realms; 

89 



One to a glorious heaven where all is well, 

And the other to a burning lake, called hell. 

Through mists and beyond clouds one will rise. 

And land in heaven somewhere beyond the skies. 

But the wicked ones will go somewhere below. 

But where their hell is, none of them know. 

Their heaven is described as of a golden age 

Like a book of bright pictures on each page. 

Progenitors and sires, of our ancestial sources. 

We hail you as the fathers of our primal forces; 

You had learned ways of crafty war slaying. 

But had great skill of strife and mutual preying. 

But we civilized men have modern inventions.. 

U-boats, airplanes, gasflames of devilish dimensions. 

The creation of so-called Christian humanitarians. 

All descendents of the much vaulted race of Aryans. 

In ancient days most men were serfs to cunning art. 

And the ignorant hordes labored with a willing heart. 

But that day is past, now intelligence sets in the brow. 

So, each can pursue a course, and be his master now. 

As down the pathways of this world we travel, 

Working at this or at that, or shoveling gravel. 

Pushing onward down the path of many dangers, 

Meeting some kind friends and some strangers. 

Let us make the journey pleasant whilst we stay. 

Then the time will shorten as we're on the way. 

Never search for sorrow, as the journey is brief. 

Perhaps we will not have any time for grief. 

Not time even to begin complaining 

If we spend a joyful life at training. 

If you are pleasant you're apt to get a chance 

To be able to improve your circumstance. 

Ah! What am 1, and why ought 1 to be restrained? 

Ye, who from my childhood up have me chained. 

Oh, you men of earth have not got the stuff 

To build your own Paradise, or isn't it good enough? 

Or must you continue with man's immortal dream 

And try to make you different from what you seem? 

And must you call the busy gods to make. 

Mold and build you a heaven for your sake. 

What we are to take into the vast forever 

Admits of no certainty for our endeavor. 

There is no proof of there being an open door. 

Of no golden crown, or of a white marble floor. 

There's no proof of a heavenly portal 

For which we must toil for a life immortal. 

Naked out of the abyss we entered here, 

Into this world where we did at first appear; 

But no word of our coming was behind us. 

So when we go out this ought to remind us 

That silently out we will then glide 

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As there is no known chart, us to guide. 

The man who bridges the abyss as he goes, 

And brightens the way as it flows, 

Will have the joy of content with him to stay, 

And prove that the happiest day is today. 

Some misfortune is a part of every life, 

None of the journey can evade all strife. 

For every human must share some woe. 

And every heart at times knows it's so. 

And yet the sunshine will burst through. 

When the hour of desire for joy comes anew. 

Christians that are honest always trust and believe 

That the Bible Revelations that Hebrew did weave 

Into warp and woof, altho a frail web is what they spun, 

Is of true dew-gemmed glittering jewels of the sun. 

And the later scribes who translated it out 

Were cautious enough to know what they were about. 

That Sinai's summit was the true Jehovah's throne. 

When they gave the evidence it was His earthly home. 

That the eternal truth was beyond all hopes and fears. 

That it was without a doubt the holy-of-holy spheres. 

Thus from age to age history would mark it sublime 

As the most venerated spot, everlasting to end of time. 

It was taught in all temples, churches and schools. 

Until none would dare to doubt or think they are fools. 

But today the study of the solar system show 

How little the Hebrew sages of this world did know. 

That they knew little beyond the Lebanon hills. 

Let alone the earth's size, or what space it fills. 

They knew naught of the universe's unfathomed powers. 

Neither anything of the boundary of this world of ours. 

But we've learned to think and to use our voice; 

Now some will be glad, or sad, some mad; take your choice. 

And now I will stop my philosophising 

And begin with my own criticising. 

Be careful reader not to get a nervous shock 

And think that I tried to hit you with a rock. 

And if you think me wrong you can investigate 

And ascertain if I am correct in what I state. 

I am certain you will find it is the honest truth. 

Unless you are not able to judge; then it's your's, forsooth. 

I will make my statements so very plain. 

So ordmary persons can understand, if they've the brains. 

First of all, if God is all-powerful and all-wise. 

If He created nature and its laws — which I prize 

Because these laws are everywhere on earth the same 

With a perfect knowledge of nature's plane. 

If studied under the same environment, to me or to you; 

In Asia, Africa, America, or Europe, everyone is true. 

If your God thought it necessary for us to have religion 

Why did He not make it just as plain in every region? 

91 



Why have we three hundred and thirty-seven sects. 

And seven varieties of Bible, all of different texts? 

Why not all religious laws as plain as nature's laws? 

Why did He not have sense enough to omit flaws? 

Have Him and religion so plain that all 

Could understand it just as we can nature's call. 

This fault you can not justly blame on the scribes. 

For their mistakes were of the ignorance of tribes. 

But your "All-Wise" is to blame for my criticise. 

For if He had perfection, it would be otherwise. 

Christians teach you must believe in Jesus Christ, 

And the ancient doctrines that preachers in pulpit's hist. 

Or your soul will have no chance to go to heaven — 

They have but one; but Mohammedans have seven — 

But they have no hell — which show do you think the best? 

I'd rather get a ticket from Mohammed when going to rest. 

For then I know their train will not get scorched. 

As they never created a sulphur-fired hell torched. 

I may be ever so good, if I reject Christ I go to hell. 

But good or bad, who will believe in Jesus — all is well. 

Christians claim that their God is kind and grand; 

If that is true, how is a humble servant to understand? 

Oh, what a God, that would weigh down mankind 

With his own creation of passions strong and blind. 

Then curse them at birth, and at death as well, 

Then send them to an everlasting fiery hell. 

Say, friend, can it to be true that the most are lost. 

Who Nature's Laws has on the waves of life been tossed? 

That very few of the human race will reach the happy land, 

Altho they claim all are guided by a God's hand. 

Is not this a burlesque on your all-wise God, 

To procliam that he will rule with a red-hot rod. 

Next I will quote from your Holy Writ, 

Some will think 1 do not understand it. 

But let me come to it, even if it is unaware, 

So it is as fair as anything else that is fair. 

If by chance 1 should make a mistake 

It is not by the intention to quote a fake. 

If it happens upon any point 1 should fall, 

I will always be willing to answer the call. 

So let's investigate in a friendly manner. 

See if I do not hand you a truth's banner. 

Read chapter 1 to 3, genesis, where it says 

God created the earth and all — in six days, 

Including Adam, a man as an image of Himself. 

He, Adam, therefore, is perfection; minus pelf. 

Then he showed Adam all the beasts of the field 

To see if a help-mate to Adam any could yield. 

But Adam named them for God; but he voiced 

"None of them beasts will be of my own choice." 

God said. "Then I will have to make one for you; 

92 



So you go to sleep, so you will not see what I do." 

Then God robbed Adam of one of his ribs 

And made of it a woman. Eve — without bibs. 

Then God commanded of them that they should be good. 

If they disobeyed, she must bear motherhood. 

After telling them what they must not do, 

God sent a tempter to tell Eve, and tempt her, too. 

Disobey the order of God, as she would find it nice. 

So Eve tempted Adam, saying it's no sacrifice 

Then God punished Eve, and Adam too, 

For doing just what He said not to do. 

Oh! what a pair of fine images of your "God." 

And then He drove them out with a rod. 

Later there came some more images into the world — 

Cain and Abel — not by God, but by Eve, were hurled. 

And it seemed these kids of the images bred like flies, 

And most of them lived 900 years, then they died. 

It must have been that God finally got huffed. 

Because His images had His image, making bluffed. 

But in a few generations a man Noah by name, 

A jolly good fellow, to whom God finally came. 

And said "Young man, i came to give you a spark. 

And learn you to build and equip yourself an ark. 

If you go right to work and build me a boat, 

300 cubits long, 50 wide, 3 high, to be a float. 

Then get a pair of each kind of animals of the world. 

Put them, you and your wife, three sons and wives, when all are curled 

In, you pitch it within and without, so that it wont leak. 

But see that to no other person, of this you speak. 

For the whole generation of mankind are so bad 

So I'm going to drown every one but you — ain't you glad? 

As soon as you get all aboard, and everything is done, 

A forty days constant heavy rain will be begun. 

So I am going to exterminate every other living thing, 

To see if I can't make a better start, by jing. 

My first experience has proved to be all wrong. 

But the next'l be a success, as I will watch it good and strong. 

And when the flood is all over, 1 will get you to start 

A new generation of men that will not get too smart; 

So that they will try to run this world without me. 

And if thej' try it, there's another plan which 1 will see, 

If I can't make it a success, so as to run the world 

Right; or else I will scorch it until all is curled." 

The Bib'e says the flood lasted 210 days, and was 5 miles high 

Above sea-level, (to me that looks like a bare-faced lie). 

What became of all this water, or from whence it came: 

No natural phenomina can ever account for the same. 

And all these animals, sealed up tight, without any air, 

With all the stench to breathe, — would any be alive in there? 

Read Joshua, Chapter 10, when God barkened to the voice of man 

At the valley of Ajalon, — a trick to make Sun and Moon stand. 

93 



That was a piece of magic that no one can explain. 

Why did they need the Moon, with the Sun, — a joke again. 

If your "AUwise" inspired such an unreasonable tale, 

It's no wonder .sensible folks say, — but it did fail. 

Next I will say, read Chapter I and 2 Joshua, and you'll see 

The greatest "Fishy yarn" in the world, — but harken unto me; 

Anybody, to read and believe that "fib" to be true. 

Ought to get a free pass and front seat in Heaven. — even you. 

Noah, Joshua, Jonah, is the Bible's "Trinity of Fables"; 

A reflection of "Father, Son, Holy Ghost", — in stables. 

And read Chapter lo and 19, Genesis; is it not degrading. — 

Inconsistent to God to perpetuate and record such fading; 

To burn Sodom and Gomorrah, and all other humans, 

With the single exception of Lot and his two women: 

And such "Virtues Daughters" who were God's choice. 

God, I suppose, did this to prove to man, that his voice 

Can do Miracles before the World, and do it so well. 

That the rest of the world could see He could raise Hell. 

Even after He and Noah started another breed of Images, 

After He'd washed the Earth clean to the very Limages. 

Genesis, Chapter I , verse 2 — Darkness was upon the face of the deep. 

And God moved upon the water, — and likely took a peep; 

And He saw nothing but water, and all was void; 

Now what was the water in, — or was it alloyed. 

Water is a liquid, and it spreads out if not confined. 

He does not tell if it was in a tub, — or was He blind: 

So that he could not see what held the water in place; 

Or perhaps He thought he'd puzzle the human race. 

Then He made "Light", and divided "Dark" from. "Light " : 

That was a miracle, — it beats magic out of sight. 

That was a brilliant stroke, — unless not as today. 

Now-a-days, Dark is the absence of Light, — it's true anyway. 

Verses 1 1 and 12: — The Earth brought forth grass and trees; 

Then the next day He Created the Sun, — don't freeze. 

Do you know anything about botany or chemistry? 

How did the trees and grass grow: — it's a puzzle mystery. 

That's saying they grew without the Sun's ray. 

For the Sun was not created until the next day. 

Chapter 6, verse 20 to 1.2, — Joshua: at the great city of Jerico, 

The sound of the trumpets laid the big walls down low. 

What puzzles me, is, why God don't do for Kaiser Bill, 

Some such miracle, so to punish the Allies with his skill. 

For a change Chapter 12 to 16 in the book of Judge; 

See how Samson let Leah cajole him, — Oh fudge! 

After reading all I've quoted, if you've not a surfeit in Fibs, 

Just study the Book of Revelations, through to the gibs. 

Reader, ever read the book called "Arabian Nights? " 

If not, read it and compare it to the Bible Lights. 

The "Nights" was lies; written for folks to entertain. 

"Bible Lies" was covered with "Morals", to befuddle the brain: 

And it was praised and taught, up to the skies, 

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But the "Morals" were tainted by unreasonable lies. 

Don't blame Nature; it is not its fault, 

It's "Hypocrisy" which the Book exalts. 

Morals is "conduct of man's social relation to each other; " 

And was taught ages ago among men, between one another. 

Religion is "conduct of man towards his deity:" 

And is taught by all sects to regulate his piety. 

A human can be very moral without any religion, 

And be a Peer to any religious man, of any region. 

A Miracle, is a deviation from all natural laws known. 

And can be believed by any who will, — But Truth stands alone. 

If I had written this poem 200 years ago, 

I would have been burned at the stake long ago. 

But the intellect of the world today is otherwise, 

So that ordinary brains know truth from lies. 

The Bible's lies create much hypocrisy. 

And that doesn't mix with true democracy. 

But the struggles and purpose of life, no one can tell. 

But we're here, and not by our choosing, — perhaps it's well. 

For we know nothing about what may control us. 

As the goal of our tribulations has never been told us. 

And after living and following paths others have tread. 

When we're about through living, we've no knowledge of what's ahead. 

But can there be a more horrible object in existence. 

Than an eloquent man, — not to speak the truth, — so inconsistent. 

But in his last hours, his eloquent wit is apt to display 

A mess, like some rich fruit, delicious, but in decay. 

Of these are many kinds, and some as fierce as fire. 

Others are mean and craven, and of vain desire. 

And yet there is a hatred that purifies the heart. 

Such as the anger of the better, against the baser part. 

When I began Nature's laws to investigate, 

I very soon learned that 1 need not hesitate 

To depend upon the truth of those laws. 

As I found they were true, without flaws. 

At first I was on the fence, for a little while. 

Because, in those days it was quite the style. 

But just as soon as my position was found 

To be wrong, I got down upon solid ground. 

For there's no true content, or peace of mind. 

In seeking for a heaven we will never find. 

If some personal God did create the earth. 

He certainly was not wise enough at its birth. 

To use force enough to shape things right. 

Unless it was done in the dark, not in light. 

Why did he create things so around here. 

Without having to all humans made clear? 

Why do we have to be tossed about in life> 

Why do we have to have sickness and strife? 

Why does his pet religion have confusion. 

So that it seems to be a mere delusion? 

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Why do we have to struggle here, and die, 
In order to be perfect in the bye-and-bye? 
Why, if he has order and everlasting life in heaven. 
Did he not use here the same kind of leaven, 
So as to raise his own images in perfection, 
And not make us die so as to get a correction'^ 
Why did he do things when he first begun. 
That Nature tells, they never can be done? 
As miracles, of all sorts, — why did he do it 
So that his images learn to be hypocrite, 
In order to pretend that they do believe. 
Unless it's done, ignorant ones to deceive? 
Why did he not give us dignity and wealth; 
And instead of so many diseases, give us health? 
So his images could enjoy life in the main? 
Then we could understand his might, very plain. 
So that humanity could truly honor his name. 
And then, his authority, all would proclaim. 
If this world is but a bright, fleeting show, 
With revelations that can't prove where we go. 
But give us unnatural yarns for illusion; 
All of which proves it is but a delusion. 
Some folks will ask why 1 think as I do, 
I say, study Nature's laws, then you too 
Will comprehend that miracles are all wrong; 
And Nature's laws will prove that, strong. 
For any unnatural cause is never right. 
And common sense shows it in its true light. 
And when your "revealed religion" must teach it. 
Proves to thoughtful minds, it's not fit, 
Therefore I say, if all of that is not cut out, 
Christianity will eventually get a rout. 
But in the Poem's creation, there're no Haws, 
As all credits and morals follow Nature's laws. 
I am conscientious that I am in the right. 
And hope that you will see it in the same light. 
But I say, if your mind will not agree, — 
That's all right, — as you will die the same as me. 
Yes, some timid folks will think 1 was wrong 
In making some of my points so awful strong. 
But it's best to have them strong and complete. 
So that it will soak in from the head to the feet. 
For if I made them gentle and mild. 

It would seem as if I thought the reader was a child. 
So dear reader, if with me you can not agree. 
Remember, we live in a land where religion is free. 
And what a fine religion we all could have 
If, Truth, Honor, and Peace was the principal salve. 
Instead of Creed. 



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WHAT IS SCIENCE? 

The object of Scientific study is to learn 

All that we can of ourselves, and to us concern. 

How to live, and to aid our reasoning faculties. 

Theological dogmas have fought with difficulties 

Against the development of science for years. 

But today its orthodox actions are in arrears. 

They claim it's the forbidden fruit for to taste 

That brought death in this world, with waste: 

And that science has destroyed the happy state 

The human race, in ancient ignorance, thought first rate. 

Thus bringing ancient, — golden, — age into disrepute. 

By inducing mankind to eat of wisdom's best fruit. 

Some even go so far as to say it almost ruined culture. 

And even extirpated it as ravenous as a vulture. 

But science never burned martyrs at a stake: — 

It never forbade natures laws to be learned for its sake. 

It upholds the ethical laws upon which man depends. 

It has done many things to all mankind as friends. 

It has made many discoveries to alleviate disease. 

And made many discoveries the humans to please. 

It is evident that it is a great force of our time. 

And its scientific investigations have been fine. 

The lamentations that this is a degenerated age 

Is disproved by all impartial historical page. 

But gives proof that theology for generations 

Has not been able to get much variations. 

As it teaches ancient ideas that are inefficient; 

But science teaches progress that is sufficient. 

Scientists are seldom political partisans; 

Neither prejudiced theologists, with delusions. 

For both religion and poHtics are human made. 

But science rules by Natures laws, are outlaid. — 

Science was attacked because it dared to contradict 

Theology's divine revelation, that don't stick. 

There's no intention to decry Natural Morals, much, 

But to contradict, — unnatural mysteries as such. 

Science teaches us to speak truth, without prejudice; 

It prompts us to propound truth as good advice. 

Its primary object is not to make individual wealth. 

But to lessen human hardships that injure health. 

The aim is for us to see clearly that which really is. 

And to discourage ancient superstitious mysteries. 

He who discovers a remedy against human diseases. 

Is a greater benefactor of humans than Jesus. 

As it is good sense, which is acquired by biains. 

It's comprehensive logic learned by gains. 

It is an arrangement of systematic knowledge. 



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Natural science can be learned without a college. 
As it grows in the solitude gray brain-cells. 
Where Nature's contemplation of thought dwells. 
The main object is to know how to rear and to teach 
Becomingly, the progiess of generations, each to each. 
Nature strongly knits each 'ink to link, all along. 
And with her aid can form a fabric that is strong. 
But humans need the right assistance of a brain: 
Otherwise Nature's work is veiy apt to be in vain. 
So let's omit National prejudice and religious creed. 
From our civil life: — for they are really of no need. 
Also endeavor our best to avoid all "Jingoist." 
That we may not be like the Prussian Junkerist. 
In our schoo's cut out fads, teach nature's laws; 
Jealously guard our schools against theological flaws. 
As its teaching "unnatural myths" being a cause for 
Militarists or userpers to lead Nations to War. 
If the human race would bring this regeneration. 
In a few ages all would improve past all recognization. 

AS ON THE WAVES OF LIFE 1 WAS TOSSED 

Whilst upon the waves of life I wai tossed 
The shadow of Buddhism over it crossed: 
Which made am impression on my mind: 
That taught me to observe religions of all kind. 
And then the door of my mind, it opened wide, 
1 soon observed eacS had its faults inside. 
That hugs and teaches superstitious creeds. 
That dwarfs true morals beyond all needs. 
And that each human is born better than a king, 
Or priest, that erroneous teaching bring. 
Who by regal and pompous false pretense 
Try to lead the human race beyond all sense. 
And whilst the true theory of nature's evolution, 
Is science and nature's correct solution. 
And as the human brain makes progress. 
They learn to judge and observe the best 
By studying nature's actions and' its laws 
That it explains all rationally, and its cause. 
So that common sense loosens the shackels 
That are pompously taught as miracles. 
See how diversly nature's pageantry play. 
Its precise actions to us by night or day. 
They are identical in the world everywhere; 
But that all religions really never are. 
This world is too full of human kindness 
To allow superstitution to lead to blindness. 
But theology lives in hope to lead the mind 



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Of the race, by telling them that they are blind 
And that they're ordained by a (false) god 
Empowering them to lead us like a clod. 
And they preach that ttieir Holy Theology 
Is the true companion of all Mythology. 
If we don't follow, we're cursed at death as well, 
And that our spirits will be tortured in hel). 
The bigoted guys think that spirits can burn. 
If they'd study nature, better sense they'd learn. 
Death, to the human race is much more kind. 
It says you and your acts are all left behind. 
Its your actions in life, whether good or bad 
When you die, is all that's left of what you had. 
So its no matter what the clergy to you told. 
But if you live a moral life, your good as gold. 

WHAT !S A GENTLEMAN 

What constitue.s a real gentlemen 

According to a true and natural planV 

One who disposes of fabulous miracles. 

And all, of the ancient fairy shackles. 

All race and religious silly prejudice. 

And holds to true brotherhood at any price. 

From selfishness and hatred departs. 

And rejects cliques and clannish arts; 

Really venerates truth, honor and logic. 

And discards deception and all politic. 

Studies and venerates nature all he can. 

So others learn to be such a man. 

With instincts so cheerful and fine. 

That interwines as the.r age decline. 

With sympathy enough to enfold. 

Good men as being better than gold. 

Make their home a shrine of life. 

Hallowed by a mother, sister or wife. 

It's not what you mean or pretend, 

But what you do that proves the end. 

Esteem all by character, not stations. 

Let eternal justice rule in all nations. 

As calm centuries spell each lesson out. 

So each truth conquered, upsets a doubt. 

On this plan the world will not be distressing 

Or else I am mighty poor at guessing. 

LITTLE STROKES OF INK 

I will build up this Poem with little strokes of ink. 
And try to arrange it so as to make the reader think 



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The same thoughts and expressions that I do. 
While they engage deliberately this poem to pursue. 
There may be some of its items that are sublime. 
And I hope the perusal is well worth your time. 
If you're a scholar, traveler, artist, or sage. 
Or if your mind has been bent from youth to age: 
As a student of mankind and its learning. 
Over paths remote from former discerning. 
And now you glimpsed the real in the distance, 
Above the marsh-lights of the former existence, 
Far from beyond the transient as to show 
That it lit your lamps by marsh-light glow. 
I'll not use haughty words that're offensive. 
So, when comes the end 'twill not be expensive. 
That you need not expect me to be an offender. 
But you will give me an unconditional surrender. 
But the world, it is changing, going its rounds; 
And something tells me it's going in bounds. 
But the voice of cheerfulness, it goes on still 
Onward and upward, and life with joy it fills. 
1 tell art, many of its pretensions are groundless: 
Tell colleges that they lack in profoundness: 
Tell friendship of some of its unkindness; 
Tell fortune of many of its fickle blindness; 
Tell courts that they often make a bad show; 
Tell churches of false ancient yarns aglow; 
Tell men considered as of high condition 
That their purposes are often bad ambition; 
Tell physicians of their cool boldness; 
^Tell charity of its very chilly coldness:" 
For they are all naught but human, 
And every one is born by some woman. 
And educated through erroneous teaching. 
Therefore liable mistakes to be reaching; 
But if they had been taught to nature's plan 
They'd be apt to be a well balanced man. 
Alas! All 1 can now do is to show what 1 missed 
By writing the "ten lines" of this list; 
Is to acknowledge what I ought to have wrote. 
Is what the next ten lines that I now quote: — 
That they should not be deceitful or hypocritic. 
But live up to Nature and true democritic. 
Then in a few ages human wrongs would be righted, 
And all future generations will be delighted; 
And all will be contented with one another. 
So that the whole race will act as a brother. 
Thus the human race will have a new birth; 
And create a real Heaven on this Earth. 
With natural and logical civilization to increase. 
So as to develop a True Brotherhood of Peace. 



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THE CRYSTAL STREAM 

The mists and exhalations that in the air arise 
To bedeck the atmosphere with the cloudy skies; 
To wet the thirsty earth with falling showers. 
Benefiting nature's vegetation and its flowers. 
And then the Sun with its effectual beams 
Bring forth chemical changes in various reams. 
So the pure srystal stream if fouled by stains 
Of rushing torrents and descending rains. 
Then sunshine clears it as it runs, it refines, 
And in pond or lake it like mirror shines. 
In winter it comes as crystals of snow; 
That aie so pure white and bright you know. 
In spring and fall it comes as bright dew; 
With its glistening drcps it comes in view. 
When it comes as a severe-windy rain. 
You hear it crashing against a window-pane. 
Beauty is Nature's pride, and it tries to show 
Her praiseworthy workmanship by its glow 
When it freezes to brilliant cakes of ice. 
Without nature making much sacrifice. 
Also when we apply heat, it then seem 
To show great power with its steam. 

WHAT IS WISDOM 

Knowledge and Wisdom, far from being one. 
Have oftentimes no connection under the sun. 
Knowledge dwells in heads, by thoughts of other men; 
But wisdom is attained by thoughts of our own ken. 
Thus Knowledge may prove an unprofitable mass; 
But you will find Wisdom is of another class. 
The materials with which Wisdom grows apace. 
Is squared and smoothed, to fit into its place. 
Wisdom does not encumber minds so enriched: 
But Knowledge may possibly fill up the mind's ditch. 
And Knowledge is proud because it knows so much. 
Wisdom is humble that it knows no more of such. 
Prudence is the virtue to select the means. 
But Wisdom selects the right sort of beams 
That emanate from gray brain's cells of man. 
So try to cultivate them as much as you can; 
Therefore study Nature's unerring laws 
And omit all of theological creed's flaws. 

FOR NATURAL EVOLUTION 

Bow your head for all of them that're dead; 
And raise a shout for all that're still about: 



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Then in true belief, but without any grief. 

With a cheerful face, voice a triumph for the race! 

And remember still, that with a good will 

We surely will find, that with honest mind. 

If handled right to do, we can see it go through; 

With the use of the brain, without grief or pain. 

With nature so true, will help it through; 

Without any pride, and with no divide. 

That with good men, if we all try again. 

If each in the race, will hold firm in place. 

So in this earth, that gave us all birth. 

We can see it won, if the right way is begun. 

For uplifting forever, forward with endeavor, 

To get the human race in its proper place. 

In a revolution, for natural evolution. 

Look in the world's face with good grace; 

With no discord or strife, and a cheery life. 

With thoughts divine and love entwine. 

Have a new birth, with heaven on earth. 

THE CURSE OF 1870 WAR 

In looking back to war of eighteen-seventy. 
Then in my mind it now seems to me 
That we ought to have known a war would be 
Coming over across the deep blue sea. 
When the Prussian jingoes, swelled head. 
She thought if she'd win, — blood will shed. 
We should have seen it in years now gone 
That she's watching for a chance to bring it on; 
When her troops of hellish hate and lust 
Would tramp all honor down in the dust. 
But it's little did the pilgrims know 
When they prayed on knees in snow, 
That in their breast was sowed the seed 
That humanity in the future would need; 
Her strong limbs and faithful hearts 
To down the cruel tyrants of other parts; 
To save liberty in its perilous hour 
From the blood thirsty Hun's power. 
So when the watch-on-Rhine run down. 
Kaiser Bill would surrender his crown: 
When the yankies, dressed in brown 
Turned his empire upside down. 

POLITICAL POETRY 

All loyal citizens will sing Stars Spangle Banner 
In the very best of American manner. 



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And so will all the yankies that're true. 
Join in and help sing Red, White and Blue. 
And sure every one will sing very clever 
America, — the land of the free forever. 
I know that every sea farer will rave 
If he hears. Life On the Ocean Wave. 
From where does the damsel really come 
That don't like to sing Home Sweet Home. 
A mother wanting to put her child to sleep 
Should sing— Little Bo-Peep has lost her sheep. 
Any person whose mouth will pucker. 
Had better select— Old Dan Tucker. 
And to finish up the whole caboodel 
Will recommend to sing Yankee Doodle. 



POOR OLD ADAM 

Old man Adam surely had a lonely life. 

Nobody to converse or jaw but his wife; 

No daily papers to read or to abuse; 

Nobody but himself to spread the news. 

He owned the largest menagerie show. 

But no people to see it, you know. 

He, all alone, to monopolize the earth. 

None but Eve to know of his worth. 

Neither Adam or Eve ever had a chance 

To have a birthday or masquerade dance. 

They had lots of fine kinds of fruit. 

But God forbade them apples to suite. 

God told them plainly the reason why. 

That if they ate any, they'd surely die. 

Then he sent a serpent, — they say he walked. 

And according to the bible, he a'so talked; 

For he told Eve those apples are nice. 

And to eat them was no sacrifice. 

Eve ate and gave Adam some too: 

Then something made both feel blue. 

The bible tells, God created a man. 

When the world's creation first began. 

It reveals how he made him out of dust, — 

Do you believe that yarn it is just? 

Then the Revelations makes it still worse 

He made Eve of bone, then both got cursed. 

Then God cursed all future generations. 

What a Wise old Owl, — but damn poor creation. 

To curse his own images by his own law 

That she must bear children for his flaw: 

A flaw that Himself planned and executed, 



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According to his bible, — this can't be disputed, — 
Condemned all generations from her womb. 
Would be cursed until the crack of doom. 
But the world's improved since Adam ran it. 
That's the reason Nature sent us to man it. 
And to change the theological libel 
That is contained in the unnatural bible 
That are contrary to Nature, confound it. 
It don t make it true, putting a Halo around it. 
And for humans to claim celestial immortality 
By teaching such unnatural immorality. 
That civilized people pretend to believe 
All the unnatural lies, as truth received. 
I stop and wonder the leaning of it all: 
Why a wise God should curse us at all. 
And if human life is thus so strangely odd 
Why we can believe him an All- Wise-God. 

THE NEPTUNE MYSTERY 

We sailed for South America in the month of June, 

From the harbor of the Scotch Port of Truen. 

With a gentle wind, echoed by dimple waves. 

On the beach of sand that the water laves. 

With varying cadence as the wavelets swell. 

In harmony with the tide, as it rose or fell. 

Over the vessel's prow the unfurled jibs hung. 

And the fore-sail, like a curtain, loosely swung. 

They watch us from the wharf, as out we glide 

Into the bay, on the out-flow of flood tide. 

Then the gentle breeze swelled the sail so true, 

As we glide from the land to where water's so blue. 

We delight in life upon the ocean's wave, 

Where the air is bracing, and the winds do rave. 

Like an albatros at sea I loved to roam. 

As the ship shoots through the sparkling foam. 

And a speeding through the departing waves. 

Like the sea-birds wings the air claves. 

Whilst fore and aft, stays are staunch and tight. 

And the fair wind spreads sails in the flight. 

With good sea room in a roaring gale 

We let the stormy tempest prevail. 

But when we get a calm, all seem forlorn 

Until a fair wind freshly breaks the morn: 

Then we leap through with a sea gull's pride. 

With a joy to see the canvas spread out wide. 

Hurrah boys, the land's no longer in view. 

But with a stout vessel and brave crew 

We'll be happy even if the sea gets rough 



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So that a land-lubber gets fright enough 

And wishes that he had remained on shore, 

And declares he'll never go to sea any more. 

A salty tar is not discouraged or frown, 

But cheerfully says, let the wind pour down. 

And as the ship rushes through the water now. 

Splashing and dashing the waves around the bow. 

We hear all hands, with a cheerful cry. 

Whilst we hear the ropes creaking in reply. 

It gives you a bracing feeling to the core 

That no sensation gives upon the shore. 

Out there a man loves a shimmering sea. 

As it braces his nerves, makes him feel free. 

But when we sailed from Bonnie Scotland, 

To go across the equator, I didn't understand 

A thing about the "Mysteries of Neptune." 

But when the officers learned the tune 

That we had six greenies to go over the line. 

They laid plans to have a good old time; 

And began to give out necessary information 

To the Greenies, — for their gratification: 

Telling how Neptune was the King of Seas, 

When crossing the line, he'd be pleased 

To initiate each greenie that's going across 

To join his navy; without any cost. 

By which ceremony it made each seaman 

A universal sea-farer, by this plan; 

And to receive Neptune's password free, 

So that he could go anywhere over the sea. 

I knew as soon as telling of this was begun 

That it was a scheme to give the rest great fun. 

I listened, but never did I say a word. 

Analyzed to myself, every thing I heard. 

Being steward, when cleaning captain's part 

Of the cabin, I watched closely his chart. 

So when we got close to the "line's" side, 

! planned a good place for me to hide. 

So when Neptune came they got five. 

But when they searched for me, I wasn't alive. 

After searching the ship from stem to stern. 

But my whereabouts, no one could learn. • 

So Neptune never got a chance to see me, 

And the other five filled out the jubilee. 

1 learned that it was hilarious and great. 

But that they missed me, — all did really hate. 

Never mind, when coming back they'll give 

Me a double dose, with interest, sure as I live. 

But fate, it changed things just so, 

1 returned upon another ship to go. 



105 



That it happened I ciossed the line, by jing. 
Without recognizing "Neptune as King." 

WHAT IS MUSIC? 

A picture is a drawing of pencil or brush. 
Painting is a figurative of color, loud or hush. 
True poetry the painter's power displays. 
True painting emulates the poet's lays. 
They are rival sisters, fond of equal fame; 
Art alternately changes their common name. 
And music, a melody and harmony of sounds. 
With a pleasing inspiration it abounds. 
Of all arts, music is intimately interwoven 
With ethical consciousness of human event. 
A poet is a maker of material composition 
Of human thoughts and passion definition. 
Poetry is crystalized music, art doth say; 
And music is etherized poetry every way. 
Music is harmonical sounds of acoustic. 
By vibration, or air waves automatic. 
Music is an inspiration, you will find; 
It spurs the emotions of the mind, 
t's a composition that to receive is good. 
And its culture is a gem in every neighborhood. 

SOME RELIGIOUS THOUGHTS 

In a poem by E. A. Guest, that I read 
This is what in that poem he said. 
"I reckon when this life it is through 
About the first thing God will do 
Is to call together all of the creeds 
That man has shaped to serve his needs. 
He'll take the best of each, and will say: 
We'll throw all the minor frills away. 
But as your destination was the same. 
Though by different routes you came. 
But, really only one religion ought to do 
For a catholic, protestant, or jew." 
To which the Gem City Bard wishes to say. 
You cannot correct the faults that way. 
It is hard sometimes to say if our skill 
To judge rightly if all actions are good or ill. 
But of the two, perhaps the least offense 
If we can say, can't always trust our sense. 
But I have learned as my life was whorled 
That all of the religions taught in the world 
Are puiely ancinet man-made affairs; 



106 



And that all foundations are a thin as air; 

With such monstrous nonsense as appear. 

Is too ridiculous for sensible folks to hear. 

Common sense ought to tell, without surprise 

That thoughtful brains will observe the lies 

That are contrary to Nature, as I have found them. 

It don't make miracles true, putting a "halo ar,ound them' 

Man-brains ought to undo the unnatural fraud. 

Instead of delegating the job to their God. 

And don't do the job only about half way, 

But see that it is done right so it will stay. 

Your bible is full of faults and wrong hope. 

That I call it a Literary Kaleidoscope. 

WHITTIER'S BUDDHA 

In a poem John Greenleaf Whittier said. 
These twelve lines; which 1 have read: — 
"As once on the errands of mercy bent 
"Buddha, the Holy and Benevolent, 
"Met a fell monster, huge and of fierce look, 
"Whose awful voice the hills and forests shook. 
"Oh son of Peace" the giant cried, — "thy fate 
"Is sealed at last, and love shal yield to hate. 
"Unarmed Buddha, looking with no trace 
"Of fear or anger, into the monster's face 
"In pity said 'Poor friend, even thee I love'. 
"And lo! as he spake, the sky-tall terror sank 
"To hand-breadth size; the abhorrance then shrank 
"Into the charming form and fashion of a dove." 
If this poet's eyes had first beheld the light 
Where Orient's Star was with the Burmee's race 
He no doubt would praise their creed as right. 
And to Buddha wculd have turned his face. 



OUR FIFTIETH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 

In this life we meet the humble and the proud; 
And we all must meet the sunshine and the cloud. 
We also meet with some that are plain or great. 
But all the high and the low meet death as a fate. 
Fifty years ago today, you pledged, not as a squaw. 
But as a helpmate to me, according to the civil law: 
And I pledged for life to be a fond helpmate to you; 
Guiding with mind and hand until life was through. 
Thus we pledged each other faithfully, forsooth 
Until death's shadow covers up our youth. 
Our days were marvelous time that we lived in. 



107 



We were busy as bees, and always striven. 

And both cheerfully enjoyed our earthly life; 

Me, as a sober husband, and you, as cheery wife. 

The world was good to us, we gave our heart to it. 

And we were always thankful we were part to it. 

We both believed in our ability to do things 

That with perseverance sure success brings. 

Thus we accepted ourselves as of real worth, 

And were able to use our mental energy on earth. 

Many mortals wander along listly on the road of life. 

Squandering their time and thoughts on fairy rife. 

But each day we lived we were more impressed 

That a real Heaven on Earth was surely the best. 

So with gratitude and good kindness may flow. 

With truth and love to mankind here below. 

But when you died, it caused sorrow and tears. 

That ended our wedded life of over forty years. 

But today I was thinking of the day fifty years ago. 

And of the happy contentment we did know. 

When I think of those days of pure delight. 

When we overlooked litte faults, that took flight: 

Thinking of the love that grew strong with age, 

As 1 quietly contemplate our life book's page. 

Then 1 think of your words, so full of cheers 

As my mind wanders back over past years. 

Today my thoughts are, — when comes my end of life, 

I will be buried between my mother and my wife. 

And these fragrant white lilacs from our home 

1 place on your grave, to which today 1 have come. 

They are from the same plants we have used 

For years, to make designs, that others choosed 

For weddings for many young and happy bride; 

And alas! also for funerals for many that have died. 

So I, to commerate our fiftieth wedding day. 

Would use a bunch of white lilacs this way. 

I admire the pure white lilacs' bloom, 

And the smell, of its most delicious perfumi; 

With this cluster, so modest and sweet 

That 1 lay on your grave at your feet 

As the fragrant flowers are an emblem of life. 

They can serve as an emblem of my wife. 

With the fifty-four lines to proclaim :his story 

That Nature's laws are a wondrous glory. 



A GILT EDGED REVIVALIST 

Last fall there came an eminent divine 
To hold a revival, and to do it up fine. 
He was to get big money for his work. 



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To teach salvation, and not to shirk. 

And his sermons sure were screams 

That touched upon some vital themes. 

He raised his voice high, put his fists tight; 

He pranced to the left, then to the right; 

Cracked an old Joke, told of ancient glory 

Declared all sermons, but his were hoary. 

Follow him, — to heaven you will go well. 

But if you don't, you'll travel to hell. 

We soon found out he's the kind of star 

That travels round in a palatial car. 

Furnished in most luxurious so far 

Like a real palace, with wine and cigar: 

A style not suggestive of fasting or prayer. 

But like a sportsman's resting palace are. 

The idea of hell fire is what he preached. 

To frighten the timid, and the weak to reach. 

In order to make sinners hand out gold, 

As he claimed hell fire is his best hold. 

Truly some people were pleased at the scenes, 

.A.nd yelled approval, and gave of their means. 

But when 1 contemplate in my humble mind. 

The human race is still a good way behind. 

In understanding simple natural laws, 

What life and death is, and its cause. 



LIQUOR DRINKING 

If on this theme I do rightly think. 

There are five reasons why men drink. 

Red liquor, a friend, or because they'ie dry, 

Cause it's cold or hot, supposed reason why. 

Tom said to Harry, "it is quite cold today, 

"Suppose we go have a drink across the way." 

"All right ", answered Harry quite briskly, 

"We'll warm up with good old Scotch whiskey. 

At another day the two again did meet. 

At the same place on that very street. 

Instead of being cold, it was hot: 

Let's drink to cool off, on the spot. 

How can it warm them one day. 

That don't seem sensible, I say. 

Then at another day make 'em cool, 

Unless both are a blame fool. 

Or don't realize the effect's a cheat. 

Yet it fools many, who like the deceit. 

And many a boozer makes his boast. 

He never drinks only with a toast. 

Or something that is nea • to it. 



109 



And the gang is pleased to hear it. 
Has cheap jewelry in his shiit frets. 
And most always smokes cigarettes; 
And knows a raft of immoral things; 
The latest ragtime songs he sings. 
It's a gang of jolly good fellows we are. 
We love one another with care. 
Of brotherly love that's so true; 
Thus we never worry or feel blue. 
But we are happy, laugh and joke, 
We drink our booze, sing or smoke. 
And enjoy ourselves when together, 
No matter if it's hot or cold weather; 
And when our young days are over. 
With a bunch of fellows in clover. 
While knocking around in the world. 
Who don't care how hard they are hurled. 
Where this vice is, reprobates prevail 
And moral honoi hardly is of any avail. 
As they're nothing but a crowd of blokes. 
But if you're of just decent sort of folks 
You don't want to imitate their ways. 
Or you're apt to be the same kind of jaj's. 
It's true that It's bad for you to smoke. 
For tobacco contains nicotine coke. 
Likewise it's bad for anyone to chew; 
Both habits, sensible men should taboo. 
For the sa'iva you spit out is good. 
And is necessary to digest your food; 
And if you get a habit, liquor to drink. 
The alcohol will twist what you think. 
The worst drug of half awaked morn. 
Is alcohol produced by fermented corn. 
And to the sodden blokes of misdeeds, 
Is strychnine, or cocaine of poppy seeds. 
Numbers of them, by frenzied ones are shot. 
And numbers have died of the liquor rot. 
Thus many vices pass bye, some unseen. 
Until, perhaps, they're laid under the green. 
Blokes drink on until life will stop. 
And their mouth will shut up their shop 
They stand by their glasses so steady, 
And drink to them that's dead already 
Then drink another glass as a prize. 
Saying, it's for the next one chat dies. 

TWO ISRAELITE BROTHERS 

Two Israelite brothers in U. .S. once dwelt. 
And in all kinds of merchandise freely dealt. 



no 



They came from England, their old home: 

But to an American sea port they did loam. 

Isaac was a bachellor, with his own views; 

They both soon were rich as proverbial jews. 

While Ike was in the very best of health, 

On one condition, deeded Abe all his wealth. 

If, when he died, he was buried at his old home. 

No matter in what part of the earth he may roam. 

And when Ike died, Abe tried hard to prevail. 

To carry the corpse to England as they sailed. 

But every captain would always object. 

For, to carry a corpse, the ship would be wrecked. 

And for that superstitution, don't you see. 

They always bury their dead into the sea. 

In order to carry out ike's plan, Abe then worked 

To ship his brother as a barrel of pork. 

When the captain returned, to Abe he went. 

And told himi he delivered the barrel he sent. 

But when near port, a fierce storm roared. 

And we lost all our rigging overboard. 

In sight of England we laid, a sheer hulk. 

Getting out of provisions, I had to break bulk; 

So I opened your barrel so we could thrive. 

That myself and crew could keep alive. 

"My God", cried Abe, "did you eat poor Ike; 

"I never expected to ever hear the like." 

The captain said, "this is a fine interview: 

"So then we feasted upon a dead Jew." 

"I'm damned if that don't beat all creation; 

"But still it saved us all from starvation. 

"So I will pay you for what we had used: 

"But I landed the barrel with the refuse." 

Abe said, "I can't sell that brother of mine; 

"But you can pay me for the barrel and brine." 



ECCLESIASTIC LOGIC 

Well, say the ecclesiastics, even if it be true 

That medieval life was passed in a world of errors. 

Is it not better that a system confers through 

Happy expectations of a future bliss, even with terrors: 

Than to plunge them into an unknown doubt 

About the value of our christian religion. 

So that they will not know anything about 

The happy life in the heavenly region. 

Oh whal logic! — to embrace an unnatural hops, 

With a l2sson that's full of threats of terror. 

Is not an ugly truth much better to cope 



111 



Than the most rhetorical emotional error? 
To say it is better to call false as true. 
Of all the errors that the creeds wrote, 
I must say it's enough to make one blue. 
For not one has true perfection's note. 
I neither hate or love any human 
On account of the sincerity of their creed. 
But according to all of true morals plan, 
A falsehood is never a good deed. 
Hope in a future is all the church gave. 
To us here, between a cradle and a grave. 
It is science that gave to mortal man 
The ability to improve on nature's plan. 
And all of the creed's false chatter. 
Never did, or ever can change the matter. 

WHAT WAS JESUS CHRIST? 

He was the son of a humble Jewish carpenter 

As a child, he was a very bright adventurer. 

In those days, traveling from place to place 

Was quite common among the race 

By such men as were possessed of good sense. 

And the brightest would notice in going hence. 

The condition of the population they found; 

And often would advise, on good ground 

To fellowmen, to change some poor rule. 

As at that date, very few went to school. 

Jesus, when young, loitered among the priests. 

And being observant, his wisdom increased. 

He finally learned some of the Egyptic Rite, 

That the priests kept among themselves, quiet. 

He admired the parts that he had learned. 

And in time, to teach others, he yearned. 

To humble fellow-men, he then begun. 

To try to make them understand some. 

His teachings were that we are all bom. 

By the same laws, and none was forlorn; 

Unless they lived such wretched lives 

So as to make them unfit to survive. 

As a pure and virtuous existence would. 

Be sure to get to heaven, as they should. 

But that the wicked would be punished. 

If, at death, a good record wasn't furnished. 

And that the humble should treat one another. 

As if each good and virtuous one was a brother; 

And, if they lead a good life, they go to heaven. 

As well as any priest, sure as six and one is seven. 

That all the humble could be just as good. 



112 



As Pharisees, or any of the priesthood, 

Pharisees and priests were of one school. 

And they'd wreck any religion they couldn't rule. 

So, against Christ's teachings, they prevailed; 

But in the end, their scheme, it failed. 

But Jesus Christ had to forfeit his life. 

On account of the Pharisee's strife. 

Jesus was entirely too sensible a man. 

To teach such stuff as the present plan; 

For such unnatural miracles as today. 

The christian church is giving away. 

Search a Bible, and you'll find quotations. 

Christians use in very many nations. 

For their religion, for their theology. 

By quoting Bible texts of some doxology. 

And in explanations, mix certain morals. 

With ancient miracles that are horrible. 

Which nature proves are not the facts. 

As raising the dead, and many other acts; 

That can't honestly be believed as sense, 

By any student of Nature as immense. 

And Christmas festivities are strong. 

So as to make false ideas for the young. 

To befuddle inexperienced brains of youth. 

With fairy tales, that contain no truth. 

But teachings that lead to prejudice. 

To make them implicitly believe, so can't resist. 

If you're sincere about true female virtue. 

Then the quoting of eugenics won't hurt you. 

Since truth and constancy are not in vain. 

Since neither love or sense causes pain. 
Neither force of reason can persuade, 

A sincere mind, virtue to disobey. 

Jesus taught that adultery, it was wrong; 

And yet. the Bible, it says right strong 

That his mother had committed it. 

Do you really believe that tale fit? 

To such contrary morality as that; 

What is it but insinuating that he was a brat. 

If Jesus could come on the earth today 

And read what the Bible, of his mother doth say. 

In my own conscious mind, I am satisfied 

That he would be ashamed and mortified. 

For common sense proves the cause. 

Of child-birth results from natural laws. 

If there'd been no sexual intercourse, 

F;male fecundation has no source. 

Therefore, it is unnatural to conceive. 

By a virgin that no male seed has received. 

Its only a lie, you can believe a cause 



13 



That's contrary or unsustained by nature's laws. 

Mohamedans call christians, "Associaters" 

For associating God with a female creator. 

Civilized religions have caused many wars; 

It, and monarchy rule, being the main cause. 

I hope this war gives monarch the rout. 

And makes religion bring a change about. 

And accomplish a peaceful revolution 

So that the whole world will accept evolution. 

Jesus never wrote a thing as far as known. 

But he preached in a style that was his own. 

He made his sermons usually out as parables. 

So as to make his meanings as comparables. 

And always laid great stress on humility. 

Simplicity, compassion, and frugality. 

Do unto others as you wish them to. 

Under the same circumstances, do unto you. 

He said his was a perfections plan 

Of the salvation of souls ever given to man 

It changed life's gloom to light of day. 

Directed the mind to go the right way; 

Onward to our contented happy stand; 

For humanity to go, hand-in-hand; 

With all kindness we can bestow 

To one another, whilst here balow. 

But later on, the Pagans changed it; 

Pure simplicity was completely split; 

When gorgeous rituals shone so bright. 

It extinguished Jesus' simple light. 

As later on, the ambitious priests wrote; 

Not one caught perfection's note. 

Yes, I know timid folks say 1 will rue 

For writing this in the style that I do. 

But to truth, I have always been a friend. 

And have never refused it to defend. 

•Vith truth I never let anything interfere. 

As long as my own conscience, it is clear. 

And hypocrisy is a thing I despise. 

And always call misrepresentation lies. 

To expound a revealed Christianity, 

Seems to border on the edge of moral vanity. 

EXTRA EDITION 

When Wilson's War machine was on the ways, 
The Stand-patters assailed it with dispraise. 
We knew Wilson arranged a splendid war-plan 
And that he consulted with many a wise man; 
But observed the actions of the jore heads. 
And all their criticisms and their threats: 



14 



For he well knew they were jealous egotists. 
So he treated them as if they didn't exist. 
"The joints, they are wabbly". Sen. Penrose said: 
"And the machine won't work I'm afraid." 
"The wheels are almost square", says Root. 
"Yes, it won't never run." says Senator Smoot. 
"And trolleys are so loose", piped Murray Crane: 
Presumptous Knox said, "the thing lacks brain.* 

And he has not advised with any of us at all," 
Was the complaint from Senator Fall. 

Besides, he's broken parliamentary rule" 
Brayed Reed, the big Missouri mule. 
Then there came next a regular roarer. 
From the Ass-tute Senator Borah. 
"Wilson's got too much backbone, 
"That's the reason 1 can't let him alone." 
"Next", says lanky Sherman, "the thing's a dodge. 
"Let's repudiate the entire thing" said Lodge. 
D-e-1-i-g-h-t-e-d was the next thing heard, 
I d-e-c-1-a-r-e it's worth fully a dollar a word. 
Then the bunch hurrahed and lustily shouted: — 
"We've got Wilson completely routed." 
And then with a roar of harshest laughter 
From Teddy; and the bunch followed after. 
So then, the soreheads from the G. O. P's. 
Had to vent their spite and jealousy. 
Towards wise democracy of the American 
President's sensible humanity to man. 
But he let them keep up their silly gob; 
Let them know that he handled the job. 
They could do as they wished to grid it, 
And Wilson went calmly on and did it. 
Then at last the machine, it made a noise 
That came from the Yankee soldier boys, 
That caused the kaiser to give up his crown 
When the Watch-on-the-Rhine ran down: 
After the Yanks, with tanks, played pranks 
That turned the junker army out of the ranks. 
And now, as 1 have my pen at exercise, 
I will add to this, a little criticise; 
And say, — it seems to be a universal plan 
That politics and religion are made by man: 
And neither ever has real perfection 
So every now and then, needs correction. 
It seems a rule of the civilized human race. 
Most things have some good, if in its right place: 
Ause lumpen macht maan schrip-pappere: 
Das maan laght klugen herren feere, 
Aber deiser kerrls ar auf ein stumpfen 
Maan denkt alls nix vee lumppen. 



115 



With the exception of Wilson, — in my opinion, 

The above men of Uncle Sam's dominion 

Are an egostical political party class. 

Like jimson weeds among fine lawn grass. 

They are big, pompous, and quite swsU; 

But brush them: — Oh my! how they do smell. 

Still another comparison, but it is old. 

Is a lump of clinker to one of gold. 

This poem is not copyrighted; 

So that any one can have it recited. 

And any one can if they wish, use it 

Just so that they do not abuse it. 

In politics, I am very independent. 

Therefore no deagogry is intended; 

And if any of the names that I have used 

Think they have been by me abused; 

Or if they think they have been shamed, 

I think their own actions are to be blamed; 

As every newspaper knows it's a fact 

That's about the way they really did act. 

And about that there's no mystery. 

Because it is now true history. 

And because Wilson is my friened. 

Is why him and his actions I commend. 

President Wilson is no political trader. 

But is a great American pursuader. 

He does it so calmly, logically, and wise. 

That the world accepts his advice. 

Which is so sensible and astounded. 

There's no need of a halo around it. 

And most all the world knows it's a fact. 

That the soreheads made a silly attack. 

Mr. Wilson is a tutor of the good old kind. 

And knows just how to express his mind. 

By the same methods he used to teach. 

So that the pupils, a lesson did reach. 

Without the use of too much strain 

Of the gray cells of their brain. 

To get the lesson of real good sense 

With the least bit of recompense. 

Wilson called to his aid, men he knew 

Were practical, and had good view 

In war emergencies that were new, 

On what was best for Uncle Sam to do. 

The items of this poem passed through my head 

At 6:00 a. m. as I lay awake in bed. 

On February First, Nineteen-nineteen. 

As my 75th birthday shoon its beam. 

Yours truly, with the best regard. 

From the Gem-City Bard. 



116 



THE CURSE OF POLITICS! 

In a Poem about the cruel European war, 

E. V. Cooke, told how ths poor children are 

Starving — Who are even as yours or mine; 

No food: — less cared for than dogs or swine; 

And we thanking the Lord for his care, 

On bent knees, bobbing our heads in prayer. 

Thank God! not our Children are in that list, 

And our own are being cuddled and kissed. 

"If we think God's will is, these children be killed, 

Then God is dead — and the Devil uses his skill." 

To the above I wish to add some, and remark, 

This theme should be brought to light — not dark. 

As civilized folks are so proud of their own race. 

With contentment in placing kisses on a face. 

And never for a moment think of the strife. 

That Politics scheming brings to our life. 

But think and care only for selfish things. 

And seldom to aid distress or kindness brings. 

Yet fight the battle of politic-party's share. 

And yelp if party triumphs, with b'ear-eyed staie: 

Trying with all their wits to make it appear. 

That the League contains things that's queer. 

Thus for weeks and weeks keep up a constant revel 

As if the soreheads were po sessed by the Devil. 

By Senators in selfish strife — as Peace weeps. 

Because party spoils wrangle — whilst Justice sleeps. 

And Europe lies prostrate and bleeding white. 

Wrangling Senators checking the paths of right. 

And with thorns are piercing Justice sides. 

To gain their selfish party with secret pride. 

Each one urging the other to follow their flag. 

So their party politics will not droop or lag. 

Thus keeping on the troublous time of hates. 

Whilst suffering humanity bleeds and waits: — 

Christ's accredited motto of Peace-on-Earth, 

Which League-of-Peace will give it a real birth. 

So we can grasp in our hand a banner of Peace, 

And brother-hood of Humanity may increase. 

So as to mitigae war hatreds of all the world. 

And have a Universal fellow-ship banner unfurled. 

As an emblem of a civilization of the free. 

As a guardianship of universal democracy. 

As a warning to wars bloodshed and strife, 

And a shield of Honor, Justice, and Life. 

The Standpatters try to make us understand, 

With Demegogic nnethods that's underhand. 

By twisting various sections by false variations. 

So as to repudiate the League-of-Nations. 



17 



THE SHAME OF AMERICA? 

Americans — Awake, for humanity's sake bids you arisel 

Can't you behold Europe's hailing, bewailing, and her cries: 

Who so proudly praised your help through the perilous fight. 

Over their ramparts you gallantly brought victorious light: 

When you heard their cries against tyrants vice-abreeding, 

"Will you desert them while peace and liberty lies bleeding. " 

See Senators juggling as the world is kept bewailing, 

Keep petifogging unan erican gab that is unavailing. 

Awake! Awake every loyal and patriotic American 

And defeat their unamerican Bolshevics plan. 

Up and stand in solid plank, and in united ranks. 

To defeat them in their visions scheme and pranks. 

For Humanity's sake — stand for Uuiversal Peace, 

That civilization everywhere will increase. 

"This Bunch of Bull-Moose used all their will hearty. 

In order to defeat Taft and the G. O. P. party:" 

It scheemed with al! the might they could provide. 

To beat Taft by getting by rupture of party divide. 

Because they lost out — but gave Taft a defeat. 

The Rupturer's are working a scheme to repeat. 

With tricks; Even to injure of U. S. — so eratic, 

To down Wilson and the party Democratic. 

They scheme to get the Pace-Treaty confounded. 

They hope to get it completely dumfounded. 

They have become so rabid and almost insane. 

And to win will put the United States to shame. 

This poem expresses my candid opinion. 

Of the Senate of Uncle Sam's Dominion. 

Americans awake 1 nail the flag to the mast. 

To remain as our emblem as long as it lasts. 

"Arouse from your slumber, begin to think. 

Before they scuttel the ship, ere it sinks." 



JULY 1919? 

Were times we met with senatorial resistance: 
Rabbid partisans who threatened our existence. 
By the pack of delirious soreheads, by their tenet; 
I mean the loony fellows that in the U. S. Senate. 
That threatened like a galled-rock loose in it's place, 
And looks bad overhanging and jutting from its base. 
Wilson was right in 1918 fall — when he said: 
Americans elect men of brains in their head. 
And after the Boss Teddy gave up his ghost. 
So that he was not here to lead the Bull Moose host. 
And now each one wants to lead the rabble. 
That's why now so many are in the scrable. 



118 



Yes, but Wilson's logic it will surely prevail, 
And he will take all the wind out of their sail. 
"Just keep up your courage — don't think its a rout" 
All will be straight when Wilson brings it all out. 
He'll see the U. S. will be friendly to all the world. 
And stand firm wherever our flag is unfurled. 
It may look to you that final peace may be delayed. 
He'll guide it with wisdom, see no mistake is made. 
The soreheads tried their best to twist what's well, 
But wisdom will fix it all right by a logical spell. 
So the Gang will be ashamed of their silly agitate, 
When the Truth will prove that all is straight. 
The Bull Moose radical partisan action, 
Is nothing but a real suicidal attraction. 
Of a pure unadulterated Jingoism. 
Developed to fanatically Lunaticism. 
And we need not be much surprised, 
To find them Bolshevic in disguise. 



SYNOPSIS 

1 was born in a log hut February ist, 1844, in Quincy, Illinois. My 
father died in 1851, leaving my mother with 5 small children. I was the 
oldest and had to stay at home to take care of the younger, so mother could 
work to support us. 1 went to school 4 weeks before father died, just learned 
my a, b, c's. When 10 years old 1 went to work for $4.00 a month in the 
Quincy Hotel, for D. W. Miller, 1 worked constantly from 1834 to 1859, 
every day of the year, in Quincy, until 1859; on Memphis and St. Louis 
Packet steamboat until November 1860; then at sea for 4 years, — to Europe 
Africa, South America, and Asia to November 1864, then in Quincy 
hotels, to 1880, then in green-house until 1909. I embraced every spare 
moment to learn to read and study during these days. 1 learned in my 
youth to observe things in thir world, and as 1 never had a chance to go to 
schools, my brain was not filled with the fads and fallacies of the usual pre- 
vailing time. 1 had room in my brains to learn facts of the world by natural 
experience and observation, as 1 had the World as my school. In 1878 
1 composed a volume of 364 pages, printed it with a pen, a Teological view 
of Nature, and in 1912 had 300 copies printed in Quincy at a cost of $1500.00, 
and donated them free to my friends, most of which had read the original 
book, which I still have. When I broke up housekeeping I donated my 
library of 96 volumes, in good condition, besides 4 volumes of my printed 
book, to the Free Public Library, so that Quincy's citizens could borrow 
them to read, as 1 did not put any of them on the market. Those 100 books 
are, — or at least should be there, if the Public Library is the kind of an insti- 
tution I naturally supposed it was. In 1875 1 composed a chart, — Zoology 
Compaiative to Geology, 40 x 20 inches, that in 1912,1 presented to the 
Quincy High School, also a cabinet of 1000 geological specimens, that I was 
years in collecting. In 1910 I composed and printed with pen, a volume 
of 350 pages, — A Constructive Treatise of Evolution Theory, taking up 

119 



the scientific history from 1878 to 1910. This book I hope, some day, to 
be able to have printed. In 1916 I composed a volume of 150 pages, — -A 
Diminution of a Literary Kaledoscope, giving thorough exposition of the 
so-called Revelations of the Bible. This I intend to publish next. In 1917 
I composed and had printed and distributed 1000 pamphlets. Vol. I, — In- 
side History of the Chamber of Commerce; Vol. 2, — Let there be More Light, 
in a controversy with 3 reprobates, members of the Chamber, — in regard 
to the "Fair Abbatoir Co." Later I had printed 500 copies of this book 
of 140 pages of my 450 poems. Every one of these publications I have 
donated, not selling any. The total has cost me $1900.00, as a part of my 
liberality to humanity. 

May 14th 1916, I wrote an article about the League-To-Enforce- 
Peace. The last paragraph was as follows: — I sincerely hope that the United 
States will eventually see that it will be to the interest of the whole human 
race for us to take a hand in this war — notwithstanding George Washington's 
admonition not to mix in with any foreign alliance. At that time it was good 
advice, but today the world is progressing — so as to give us a logical and 
legitimate right to assist, if not to lead, in the constituting of a bulwark 
which will eventually protect the independence and integrity of all just and 
peace inclining Nations through an International- Union of all Civilized 
Nations in their essential corporations in the various fields which invite 
the intellectual and peaceful thoughts of mankind, by mutual esteem and 
trust, thus each gaining the benefits mutually which would result by honestly 
trusting one another with a true and dignified regard fcr the right of all, 
thus living in harmony and good will towards one another in a true inter- 
national development, and guard against all race hatred and discord. 

I quote the above to show that my Poems on the League of Peace is 
sincere without any party prejudice or jingoism. 

AND 



None of my literary work is ever copyrighred; 
So that any person can have them recited. 
And if any one should wish ever to use them. 
They can so do, just so they don't abuse 'em; 
As I wish to give my ideas free to humanity. 
With the hope they'll not cause a calamity. 
But will aid them to learn to be wise. 
Therefore I use Truth, and shun lies. 
So I try to make all my work worth reading. 
To persuade you that Nature's worth heeding 
[o learn its laws, as a guide, if your willing. 
You'll find it's all well worth the drilling. 



120 



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